Denmark’s victoria Kjaer Theilvig Crowned Miss Universe 2024

Mexico City: Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, a 21-year-old dancer, entrepreneur, and animal rights activist, made history by becoming the first contestant from Denmark to win the Miss Universe title. Theilvig triumphed over more than 120 contestants in the 73rd edition of the pageant held on Saturday in Mexico City.

The first runner-up was Chidimma Adetshina, a law student from Nigeria, while the second runner-up was Mexico’s Maria Fernanda Beltran. Completing the top five were Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand and Ileana Marquez of Venezuela.

Marquez, at 28, had earlier broken barriers as the first mother to be crowned Miss Venezuela. This year’s pageant continued its inclusivity efforts by featuring contestants older than 28, a shift from traditional age restrictions. Among them was 40-year-old Beatrice Njoya of Malta, who became the oldest finalist in Miss Universe history.

Adetshina, the first runner-up, faced controversy in her pageant journey. Previously a Miss South Africa finalist, she chose to represent Nigeria following a nationality dispute.

The 2024 competition celebrated diversity, following changes introduced in 2023 that welcomed married, plus-sized, and transgender participants. Theilvig’s victory marks a significant moment for Denmark, highlighting her advocacy for animal rights and entrepreneurial achievements on the global stage.