Bangkok. — Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025 on Friday, marking a triumphant end to one of the most controversial editions in the pageant’s recent history. The 25-year-old, born in Tabasco, claimed the crown during a highly emotional night at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, where tensions surrounding this year’s competition had captured global attention.

Bosch emerged victorious over more than 100 contestants from around the world, securing Mexico’s fourth Miss Universe title. Her win was met with overwhelming cheers as supporters waved Mexican flags and celebrated a moment described by many as a triumph of resilience and dignity.

This year’s pageant was overshadowed by a public confrontation earlier in November, when Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil sharply reprimanded Bosch during a livestreamed event for allegedly failing to follow promotional guidelines. The incident escalated into a heated exchange, leading to a walkout, widespread online backlash, and a wave of feminist solidarity for the Mexican contestant. Itsaragrisil later issued an emotional public apology.

Despite the turmoil, Bosch remained composed and focused throughout the competition. After being crowned, she told reporters that she hoped to be remembered as someone who “changed a little bit the prototype of what is a Miss Universe, and a real person that gives the heart.” She highlighted the pageant’s evolving mission, describing it as “a platform that is strong because they have the space t

Thailand’s Praveenar Singh, 29, was named first runner-up, followed by Venezuela’s Stephany Adriana Abasali Nasser, 25, in third place. Completing the Top 5 were Ahtisa Manalo, 28, of the Philippines, and Olivia Yacé, 27, of Ivory Coast.

Bosch’s victory now positions her as one of the most widely discussed Miss Universe winners in recent years, not only for her pageant performance but also for her role in challenging mistreatment and standing up publicly against bullying.