Sun Nov 17 21:08:48 UTC 2024: ## Dane Makes History: Victoria Kjær Theilvig Crowned Miss Universe 2024

**Mexico City, Mexico** – Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark has made history, becoming the first Dane to ever win the Miss Universe competition. The 21-year-old dancer, entrepreneur, and aspiring lawyer triumphed over 120 contestants in a spectacular finale held Saturday night in Mexico City.

The event, hosted by Mario Lopez and Olivia Culpo, featured a performance by Robin Thicke and showcased the finalists in swimwear and evening gowns following a preliminary round that included a national costume competition. The final five faced questions on leadership and resilience before Theilvig was crowned.

Theilvig’s victory marks a significant moment for the competition, which saw several historic changes this year. For the first time in its 72-year history, the age limit was lifted, allowing women over 28 to compete. This resulted in a more diverse group of finalists, including Beatrice Njoya of Malta, the first contestant in her 40s to reach the final. The competition also continued its move towards greater inclusivity, having previously lifted bans on married women, mothers, and pregnant women.

This year also saw the return of Cuba to the competition after a 57-year absence, and the debut of several other countries including Belarus, Eritrea, and the United Arab Emirates. Despite rumors, Saudi Arabia did not participate.

The road to the crown wasn’t without controversy. The Miss Universe South Africa competition saw first runner-up Chidimma Adetshina leave amidst nationality-related issues before ultimately representing Nigeria. Additionally, the director of Miss Universe Nicaragua resigned amid serious allegations of political conspiracy.

Chidimma Adetshina of Nigeria was named first runner-up, followed by Maria Fernanda Beltran of Mexico. Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand and Ileana Marquez Pedroza of Venezuela rounded out the top five, with Pedroza making history as a mother in the top five. Theilvig’s message to viewers was simple yet powerful: “keep fighting … no matter where you come from.”

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