Sun Nov 17 11:06:07 IST 2024: ## Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Crowned Miss Universe 2024
**Mexico City, Mexico** – Victoria Kjaer of Denmark has been crowned Miss Universe 2024, defeating a record-breaking field of 125 contestants. The 21-year-old dancer, beauty entrepreneur, and mental health advocate bested Miss Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, in the final round. Venezuela, Mexico, Nigeria, and Thailand were named runners-up.
Kjaer, who aspires to be a lawyer, expressed her desire to use her platform to advocate for the voiceless. “I have been waiting my whole life for this moment,” she stated during the swimsuit competition.
The 73rd Miss Universe pageant, hosted by Mario Lopez and Olivia Culpo, saw a record number of participants, surpassing the previous high of 94 in 2018. The event featured a star-studded judging panel including Emilio Estefan, Michael Cinco, and Eva Cavalli. Catriona Gray and Zuri Hall provided live commentary.
The top twelve finalists, who showcased stunning evening gowns representing their respective countries’ cultures, were selected from a diverse group of competitors representing countries including Bolivia, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Russia, Chile, Thailand, Canada, and Peru. Early favorites included Peru, Venezuela, and Mexico.
The preliminary rounds and national costume parade were held on November 14th. The final judging round included a question-and-answer segment designed to assess the contestants’ analytical and communication skills. The outgoing Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, passed on the crown to Kjaer during the grand finale.
First Piper 