MEXICO CITY: Victoria Kjaer Theilvig has been crowned Miss Universe, making her Denmark’s first contestant to receive the prestigious crown.
The 21-year-old entrepreneur, animal rights advocate, and professional dancer emerged victorious in the pageant’s 73rd edition, held in Mexico City, beating contestants from 120 countries, the Miss Universe organization announced on Instagram.
Theilvig received the crown from outgoing Miss Universe Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua during a dazzling finale hosted by Saved by the Bell star Mario Lopez and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo.
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The event also featured a performance by singer Robin Thicke.
This year’s pageant showcased the new “Light of Infinity” crown, a masterpiece adorned with sea pearls and crafted by Jewelmer, a renowned Filipino brand.
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Theilvig will serve as an ambassador for the Miss Universe Organization, travelling to over 30 countries, attending global events, and hosting a new Miss Universe travel show.
Nigeria’s Chidimma Adetshina, a law student, secured the position of first runner-up, while the top five also included Maria Fernanda Beltran of Mexico, Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand, and Ileana Marquez of Venezuela, the organization announced on Instagram.
Notably, Marquez, 28, was the first mother to win Miss Venezuela.
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Theilvig’s victory also comes with a series of rewards, including a one-year supply of Miss Universe skincare and cosmetics, a two-carat ring from Pandora, and a Bulova watch.
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During the preliminary competition, special awards highlighted outstanding contributions.
Vietnam was named Best National Pageant, while the Philippines was honoured as the Best National Host Tour Country. Other awards included the People’s Choice Award, won by Chile’s Emilia Dides, who made it to the Top 12.
The contest also celebrated advocates for change through the “Voice for Change” initiative.
Gold winners included Guatemala’s Ana Gabriela Villanueva, Bolivia’s Juliana Barrientos, and Cambodia’s Davin Prasath, while seven delegates received Silver awards, including Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri and Bahrain’s Shereen Ahmed, whose advocacy supports single mothers.
