Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilweg Crowned Miss Universe 2024

Denmark’s 21-year-old Victoria Kjær Theilweg claimed the title of Miss Universe 2024, making history as the first Danish beauty queen to win the coveted crown.

The annual pageant, which began on Thursday, featured participants from across the globe, with 120 contestants initially competing. The field was narrowed down to 30 semi-finalists before culminating in a final showdown among five contenders.

Nigeria’s Chidimma Edetshina secured second place, while Maria Fernanda of Mexico came in third. Thailand’s Suchata Chuangsri placed fourth, showcasing strong performances from the finalists.

Notably, 28-year-old Venezuelan Eliana Márquez Pedroza, a mother, achieved a milestone by finishing in fifth place. Malta’s Beatrice Nguya also made history as the first woman over 40 to reach the grand final.

This year’s Miss Universe marked a groundbreaking shift as, for the first time in its 72-year history, the competition allowed women over the age of 28 to participate. The Miss Universe Organization removed previous restrictions on age, as well as rules excluding pregnant, married, or mother contestants last year.

The event also saw first-time participation from several countries, including Belarus, Eritrea, and the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the expanding global representation at the pageant.