MEXICO CITY (AP) – Denmark's Victoria Kjaer Teilvig has been crowned Miss Universe.
Kjaer, an animal rights activist who works in the diamond sales business, defeated Miss Nigeria at the end of the 73rd edition of the pageant in Mexico City. Miss Mexico came in 3rd place.
This is the first time a Danish athlete has won Miss Universe.
The pageant was held at the Mexico City Arena, an indoor venue that can seat 20,000 people. Supporters inside shouted and waved flags from around the world.
The ceremony began with 131 mariachi players and Black Eyed Peas singer Taboo performing “Mexicana,” a song written by Emilio Estefan for the contest.
The gala was hosted by Mario Lopez. Olivia Culpo, Miss Universe 2012. Presenter Zuri Hall. And 2018 Miss Universe Catriona Gray.
According to organizers, there were more than 120 participants.
This year, several countries were represented for the first time, including Belarus, Eritrea, Guinea, Macau, Maldives, Moldova, and Uzbekistan.
This is the third time Mexico has hosted Miss Universe.
