In a dramatic turn of events that captured global attention, Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025 on Friday, November 21, in Bangkok, Thailand. The 25-year-old's victory became a symbol of empowerment after she courageously stood up to public bullying from pageant organizers, sparking international conversations about dignity, respect, and women's rights.
A Victory Born from Controversy
The 74th Miss Universe pageant will be remembered not just for its glamorous finale, but for the unprecedented controversy that preceded it. During the annual sashing ceremony on November 4, Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly berated Bosch for allegedly not participating in promotional activities, calling her a "dummy" in front of other contestants during a livestreamed event.
Rather than accepting the humiliation, Bosch defended herself with remarkable composure. "Because I have a voice," she responded firmly. "You are not respecting me as a woman." When Itsaragrisil called security to remove her, she walked out with dignity, stating: "As women, you need to show respect for us. I'm here representing a country and it's not my fault that you have problems with my organization."
Solidarity and International Support
Bosch's courageous stand triggered a powerful wave of feminist solidarity. Dozens of contestants walked out in support, including Miss Universe 2024, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, who would later crown Bosch as her successor. The walkout demonstrated the changing dynamics in beauty pageants, where contestants increasingly refuse to accept disrespectful treatment.
The incident reached the highest levels of Mexican government. President Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico's first female leader, praised Bosch publicly: "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."
The Road to the Crown
Despite the turbulent circumstances, Bosch remained focused on her mission. The Miss Universe Organization president, Mexican businessman Raúl Rocha Cantú, condemned Itsaragrisil's behavior as "public aggression" and "serious abuse," leading to the Thai director's dismissal from pageant duties.
When Bosch was announced as the winner at the grand finale, the auditorium erupted with cheers and screams. Mexican flags waved enthusiastically as supporters celebrated not just a beauty queen, but a champion for women's dignity.
Top 5 Finalists and Competition Highlights
The competition featured over 130 contestants from around the world. The final rankings were:
- Winner: Fátima Bosch Fernández (Mexico, 25)
- First Runner-Up: Praveenar Singh (Thailand, 29)
- Second Runner-Up: Stephany Adriana Abasali Nasser (Venezuela, 25)
- Fourth Place: Ahtisa Manalo (Philippines, 28)
- Fifth Place: Olivia Yacé (Ivory Coast, 27)
Additional Controversies at Miss Universe 2025
The pageant faced multiple challenges beyond the Bosch incident. Two judges resigned mid-competition, with Lebanese-French composer Omar Harfouch alleging that a "secret vote" predetermined the Top 30 finalists. The Miss Universe Organization firmly denied these accusations, maintaining that all evaluation protocols were followed transparently.
Additionally, Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry suffered a frightening fall from the stage during the preliminary evening gown competition, requiring hospitalization. Fortunately, pageant owner Raul Rocha confirmed she sustained no broken bones.
Who Is Fátima Bosch?
Beyond her pageant success, Bosch is a fashion designer who studied in both Mexico and Italy. She specializes in sustainable fashion design, working with discarded materials to create eco-conscious clothing. Her advocacy extends to multiple humanitarian causes, including volunteering with sick children, promoting environmental awareness, supporting migrants, and addressing mental health issues.
Speaking to media after her victory, Bosch expressed her hope 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 described Miss Universe as "a platform that is strong because they have the space that women are searching to have a voice."
Historical Significance for Mexico
Bosch becomes Mexico's fourth Miss Universe winner and the first since Andrea Meza claimed the crown in 2020. Her victory carries special significance as it demonstrates how standing up for one's dignity can resonate globally and inspire positive change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won Miss Universe 2025?
Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025 on November 21 in Bangkok, Thailand.
What was the controversy at Miss Universe 2025?
Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly berated Miss Mexico during a livestreamed ceremony, calling her names and attempting to humiliate her. This led to a contestant walkout and international criticism.
How old is Fátima Bosch?
Fátima Bosch is 25 years old and works as a sustainable fashion designer specializing in eco-conscious clothing.
Where was Miss Universe 2025 held?
The 74th Miss Universe pageant was held in Bangkok, Thailand, with the theme "The Power of Love."
Who were the Miss Universe 2025 finalists?
The Top 5 included Mexico (winner), Thailand (first runner-up), Venezuela (second runner-up), Philippines (4th), and Ivory Coast (5th).
A New Era for Pageantry
Bosch's victory represents more than a beauty crown—it symbolizes a transformative moment for pageantry where authenticity, courage, and advocacy matter as much as external beauty. Her refusal to accept disrespectful treatment, combined with her dedication to sustainability and humanitarian work, embodies the evolving standards of what it means to be Miss Universe in 2025.
As President Sheinbaum noted, women were historically told they "look more beautiful when they keep quiet." Bosch's triumph proves the opposite: women are most beautiful when they raise their voices, defend their dignity, and use their platforms to create positive change in the world.
