A Mexican became Miss Universe
In a night full of glitz, glamour, and unexpected drama, Fatima Bosch of Mexico has been crowned Miss Universe 2025 in Bangkok, ending what has been one of the most scandal-filled pageant seasons in recent memory. At 25 years old, Bosch’s victory is already being hailed as iconic, not just for her poise and beauty, but for the dramatic events that led up to her crowning.
The road to the crown was far from smooth. Earlier this month, Bosch walked out of a pre-pageant event after a Thai official publicly berated her in front of dozens of contestants. She was threatened with disqualification for herself and anyone who supported her. This bold move instantly made headlines around the world and quickly positioned Bosch as a figure of courage and principle. Supporters, including the Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, praised her as “an example of how we women should speak out” against aggression.
The controversy didn’t end there. Just a week later, two judges resigned amid accusations of rigging. Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch alleged that an “impromptu jury” had pre-selected finalists ahead of the final night, while former French football star Claude Makelele resigned citing “unforeseen personal reasons.” Although the Miss Universe Organization denied any wrongdoing, the resignations added fuel to an already heated debate about fairness and transparency in the pageant.
Amid the turmoil, fans and social media commentators were quick to speculate that Bosch’s win may have been influenced by her earlier walkout. “Next year, whoever walks out will win,” one fan joked online, while another suggested, “They had to crown her to make up for injustice earlier to save Miss Universe!” Regardless of speculation, Bosch’s grace, strength, and radiant spirit undeniably captured the hearts of viewers worldwide, as the Miss Universe Organization celebrated on social media.
The pageant itself was not without its own mishaps. During the preliminary evening gown round, Miss Jamaica fell on stage and had to be stretchered out of the theatre. Thankfully, organisers confirmed she was unharmed and received proper medical attention, though the incident became a viral sensation across social media platforms.
Despite the turbulence, the final night proceeded with intensity and elegance. Miss Thailand Praveenar Singh took first runner-up, Miss Venezuela Stephany Abasali placed third, followed by Miss Philippines Ma Ahtisa Manalo and Miss Cote d’Ivoire Olivia Yace, rounding out the top five. Yet it was Bosch’s presence, confidence, and ability to handle the controversies with dignity that truly dominated the headlines.
The behind-the-scenes tension highlighted the differences between the Thai and Mexican factions overseeing Miss Universe this year. The Bangkok events were organized by Nawat Itsaragrasil, founder of Miss Grand International, known for his bold social media presence and high-profile organizing style. Meanwhile, the Miss Universe Organization has been run from Mexico under businessman Raul Rocha, a relatively new leadership team brought in just before this year’s pageant.
Ownership of Miss Universe has changed hands several times in recent years. Thai media mogul Anne Jakrajutatip had previously acquired the pageant from US-based Endeavor in 2022, making sweeping reforms to promote inclusivity—allowing transgender women, married women, and mothers to participate, and removing the age cap for contestants. She also sought to monetize the brand through merchandise, from bottled water to branded bags. However, her entertainment company, JKN, filed for bankruptcy in 2023 due to liquidity problems, and she resigned as CEO before this year’s pre-pageant events, replaced by Guatemalan diplomat Mario Bucaro.
All of these dynamics—the leadership shake-ups, walkouts, judge resignations, and viral social media moments—paint a picture of a pageant struggling to maintain relevance while navigating modern scrutiny. Yet, for Fatima Bosch, it was the perfect stage to shine. Her victory, Mexico’s fourth Miss Universe crown, is being celebrated as a triumph of resilience, courage, and grace under pressure.
While opinions remain divided, there is no denying that Miss Universe 2025 will be remembered not only for the stunning finale but for the extraordinary drama leading up to it. Bosch’s walkout, in retrospect, was more than a protest—it became a defining moment that cemented her place in the history of beauty pageants worldwide.
In the end, Miss Universe 2025 proved that in the world of pageantry, beauty may open the door, but courage and integrity keep the crown.
