Mexican Beauty Queen Triumphs Amid Controversy
In a dramatic turn of events that captivated audiences worldwide, Fátima Bosch Fernández from Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025 on Friday in Bangkok. The 25-year-old's victory came after she courageously stood up against public bullying during the turbulent 74th edition of the prestigious beauty pageant.
The coronation ceremony saw emotional scenes as cheers and screams erupted from the audience when Bosch's name was announced. Supporters waved Mexican flags enthusiastically, celebrating her remarkable achievement against all odds.
Top Finalists and Ranking
The competition featured strong contenders from across the globe. Praveenar Singh, 29, from Thailand secured the first runner-up position, while Stephany Adriana Abasali Nasser, 25, from Venezuela placed third. Completing the top five were Ahtisa Manalo, 28, from the Philippines and Olivia Yacé, 27, from Ivory Coast who finished fifth.
Standing Up Against Bullying
The pageant was marred by controversy when Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly scolded Bosch during the livestreamed sashing ceremony on November 4. The incident occurred when Nawat accused Bosch of not following guidelines for local promotional activities and called security when she attempted to defend herself.
In a powerful show of solidarity, Bosch walked out of the room, joined by several other contestants including Miss Universe 2024, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark. Speaking to Thai reporters afterward, an unbowed Bosch stated: "What your director did is not respectful: he called me dumb. If it takes away your dignity, you need to go."
Widespread Support and Backlash
The incident sparked immediate backlash from pageant officials and political leaders. Raúl Rocha Cantú, President of the Miss Universe Organization and a Mexican businessman, released a strong statement condemning Nawat's conduct as "public aggression" and "serious abuse."
Even Mexico's first woman president, Claudia Sheinbaum, weighed in during a news conference in Mexico City, praising Bosch for voicing her disagreement in a "dignified" manner. Sheinbaum emphasized: "It seems to me that it is an example of how women should raise our voices. We women look more beautiful when we raise our voice and participate, because that has to do with the recognition of our rights."
Victory Speech and Future Vision
After her historic win, Bosch shared her aspirations with the media, expressing her desire to be remembered as "a person that changed a little bit the prototype of what is a Miss Universe and a real person that gives the heart."
She also paid tribute to the pageant platform, describing it as "a platform that is strong because they have the space that women are searching to have a voice."
Apology and Aftermath
Nawat later apologized for his actions, though his apology was described as both tearful and defiant. He told contestants: "If anyone was affected and not comfortable it happened, I am so sorry. It's passed. OK? Are you happy?"
Meanwhile, Bosch's official biography reveals her impressive background in fashion studies in Mexico and Italy, with focus on sustainable designs and working with discarded materials. Her volunteer work includes helping sick children, promoting environmental awareness, and supporting migrants and mental health issues.
Additional Controversies
This year's competition faced multiple challenges beyond the bullying incident. Reports emerged that two judges had quit, with one suggesting possible rigging in the contest, though the allegations were denied.
Separately, Thai police investigated the alleged illegal promotion of online casinos connected to the event's publicity, which may have been related to the organizers' internal conflicts.
The pageant also witnessed a minor mishap when Miss Universe Jamaica, Gabrielle Henry, fell off the stage during the evening gown competition, though she wasn't seriously injured.
Miss Universe has faced controversies in recent years, including criticism for hosting the 2021 event in Israel, which drew dismay from supporters of the Palestinian cause.
