BANGKOK — Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025 on Friday in a dramatic and emotionally charged finale in Bangkok. The 25-year-old emerged victorious not only in the competition but also in a week defined by controversy, after she pushed back against public mistreatment from one of the event’s hosts.
This year’s 74th edition of the global pageant became turbulent when Bosch was sharply reprimanded during a livestreamed sashing ceremony on Nov. 4. The confrontation triggered a wave of solidarity among contestants, a walkout, and a tearful apology from the Thai organizer who initiated the incident.
When Bosch’s name was announced as the winner, the arena erupted in cheers as Mexican flags waved throughout the crowd. Speaking after her win, Bosch said she hoped to be remembered as “someone who helped redefine the Miss Universe prototype — a real person who leads with heart.” She described the competition as a powerful platform where women can finally claim the space needed to be heard.
Final Results
- Winner: Fátima Bosch Fernández, Mexico
- 1st Runner-Up: Praveenar Singh, Thailand
- 2nd Runner-Up: Stephany Adriana Abasali Nasser, Venezuela
- Top 5: Ahtisa Manalo (Philippines), Olivia Yacé (Ivory Coast)
The Confrontation That Sparked Global Outrage
During the sashing ceremony, Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil accused Bosch of not following his instructions regarding promotional duties. When Bosch defended herself, he called security to remove her. Bosch, refusing to be intimidated, walked out — joined by multiple contestants, including Miss Universe 2024, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark.
“What your director did is not respectful. He called me dumb,” Bosch told reporters. “If something violates your dignity, you must walk away.”
Nawat denied using the word “dumb,” but the backlash grew quickly.
Global Support for Bosch
Miss Universe Organization president Raúl Rocha Cantú condemned Nawat’s behavior as “public aggression” and “serious abuse.”
Support even came from Mexico’s newly elected president, Claudia Sheinbaum, who praised Bosch’s courage:
“This is an example of how women must raise our voices. We look more beautiful not when we stay quiet, but when we speak up for our rights.”
Nawat Apologizes — Sort Of
Nawat later apologized in a speech mixing remorse and defensiveness:
“If anyone was uncomfortable, I am sorry,” he said, before turning to contestants with, “It’s passed. OK? Are you happy?”
Bosch’s Background
According to her official Miss Universe profile:
- She studied fashion in Mexico and Italy
- Specializes in sustainable, upcycled designs
- Has volunteered with sick children
- Supports environmental causes
- Advocates for migrants and mental health initiatives
More Pageant Turbulence
This year’s competition faced additional controversies:
- Two judges reportedly resigned, with one claiming the contest was manipulated — an allegation the organization denied.
- Thai police investigated claims that pageant promotions were linked to illegal online casinos.
- On Wednesday, Miss Universe Jamaica, Gabrielle Henry, slipped off the stage during the evening gown competition. She was not seriously injured.
Despite the chaotic backdrop, Bosch’s victory became the defining moment of the night — a celebration of resilience, dignity, and global support for women who speak up.
