CHIDIMMA ADETSHINA MAKE TOP TWO AS VICTORIA KJAER WINS MISS UNIVERSE 2024

Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark has made history by becoming the first-ever Dane to win the Miss Universe crown. 

The 21-year-old, who is a competitive dancer and entrepreneur, triumphed over more than 120 contestants during the grand finale held in Mexico City on Saturday night. Theilvig received a standing ovation from her fellow contestants as she was crowned by the outgoing Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua. 

Chidimma Adetshina of Nigeria claimed the first runner-up spot, making history as the highest-placed Nigerian in the pageant’s 73-year history. Mexico’s Maria Fernanda Beltran took the second runner-up title, while Thailand’s Suchata Chuangsri and Venezuela’s Ileana Marquez Pedroza rounded out the top five. Pedroza, a 28-year-old mother, became a groundbreaking finalist following recent rule changes in the competition. 

Adetshina, who initially participated in Miss South Africa, withdrew from the contest following a controversy over her ties to Nigeria. After her success, she took to Instagram to thank her supporters, emphasising the role of unity in her journey and celebrating her place as a representative of both Nigeria and Africa. 

This year’s Miss Universe marked significant changes, allowing contestants over the age of 28 for the first time in its history. The new age-inclusive policy saw more than two dozen finalists exceeding the previous age limit, including Malta’s Beatrice Njoya, who became the first woman in her 40s to reach the grand finale. The pageant has also removed bans on married women, mothers, and pregnant contestants, reflecting a broader push for modernization.

The finale featured a performance by singer Robin Thicke and was co-hosted by Mario Lopez and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo.