Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark made history on Saturday night as she was crowned Miss Universe 2024, becoming the first Dane to win the prestigious title. The 21-year-old competitive dancer, entrepreneur, and aspiring lawyer triumphed over more than 120 contestants in the dazzling finale held in Mexico City.
Amid resounding applause from fellow contestants, Theilvig accepted the tiara from reigning titleholder Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, who graciously passed on the mantle of Miss Universe. The event, hosted by actor Mario Lopez and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo, featured a lively performance by singer Robin Thicke, adding to the glamour of the evening.
Theilvig’s journey to victory began on Thursday with the preliminary round, which included a flamboyant national costume contest and other assessments that narrowed the competition to 30 semi-finalists. These women demonstrated their confidence in swimwear before 12 advanced to the evening gown segment. The final five contestants faced probing questions about leadership and resilience. When asked how she would live differently without fear of judgement, Theilvig delivered a composed response, saying, “I live by each day.” Later, in her closing remarks, she urged viewers to “keep fighting… no matter where you come from.”
“I stand here today because I want a change, I want to make history, and that’s what I’m doing tonight,” Theilvig declared, a sentiment that resonated with the global audience.
This year’s contest was marked by groundbreaking changes to the competition’s rules, allowing women over the age of 28 to participate for the first time in its 72-year history. Among the contestants was Malta’s Beatrice Njoya, the first woman in her 40s to reach the grand finale. The rule change followed the lifting of bans on married women, mothers, and pregnant contestants, signalling a move towards greater inclusivity.
Theilvig edged out formidable competitors, including Nigeria’s Chidimma Adetshina, who finished as the first runner-up, and Mexico’s Maria Fernanda Beltran, who secured third place. Completing the top five were Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand and Venezuela’s Ileana Marquez Pedroza, a 28-year-old mother who made history by reaching the final stage under the new eligibility rules.
For the first time in decades, countries such as Cuba and Eritrea participated in the competition, while Zimbabwe’s Sakhile Dube made her nation proud by advancing to the semi-finals, narrowly missing the top 12.
The build-up to the event was not without controversy. Chidimma Adetshina’s participation sparked heated debate when questions surrounding her nationality led to her withdrawal from representing South Africa, only to later be selected as Miss Universe Nigeria. The incident highlighted ongoing challenges in fostering unity and inclusivity within the pageant world.
The Miss Universe Organisation also faced scrutiny earlier this year over rumours of Saudi Arabia’s planned debut, which it dismissed as “false and misleading.” Despite these hurdles, the pageant succeeded in celebrating diversity and empowering women from all walks of life.
Theilvig’s historic win underscores a broader evolution of the Miss Universe pageant, now championing inclusivity and modern values. Her victory is a testament to resilience and ambition, inspiring women worldwide to pursue their dreams. As the first Miss Universe from Denmark, Theilvig’s reign promises to be transformative. With her background as a dancer, entrepreneur, and law student, she is poised to leave a lasting legacy as a role model for young women everywhere.
