Miss Universe 2025: Why Fans Say Côte d'Ivoire Deserved the Crown

While Mexico's Fátima Bosch claimed the Miss Universe 2025 crown on November 21 in Bangkok, Thailand, a passionate debate has erupted online about whether the right contestant won. Social media users have rallied behind Miss Côte d'Ivoire, Olivia Yacé, with many declaring her the "real winner" of the pageant.

The Answer That Captured Hearts

During the crucial question-and-answer round, Olivia Yacé delivered two responses that resonated deeply with viewers worldwide. When asked about the emotional skill every child should be taught in school, her answer struck a chord with authenticity and wisdom.

"The emotional skill that should be taught to every child is self-love," Yacé explained. "It's the foundation for confidence, resilience, and healthy relationships. When children learn to love and accept themselves, they're equipped to navigate life's challenges and shine their unique light."

Her second response proved equally powerful. Asked how she would use the Miss Universe title to empower young girls, the Ivorian representative outlined a vision of representation and breaking barriers.

"I want to be the face of a new era of women that are bold, that are leaders, that are unapologetic about who they are," Yacé declared. "If I'm Miss Universe, I want to be a role model for all the young girls and let them know that you too can make it. Go in those rooms where you think you don't belong, shine, and make sure you assume your identity."

Social Media Erupts with Support

The online response to Yacé's performance has been overwhelming. One viral post proclaimed: "This is the winning answer, Miss Universe 2025 should've been Miss Cote d'Ivoire." The sentiment echoed across multiple platforms, with thousands expressing similar views.

An X account shared photographs of Olivia, writing: "You deserved the crown tonight… but what truly matters is that your charisma left its mark on the universe. You proudly represented your country and Africa!" The post garnered responses like "For me she is the winner."

Another user didn't mince words: "I don't give a f*** what anybody says, she deserved to be Miss Universe 2025; she was by far the most poised, eloquent, beautiful and decent." The comment reflected frustration shared by many viewers who felt the judging didn't align with the performances they witnessed.

The Competition Breakdown

The 74th Miss Universe pageant featured contestants from around the globe, with India's Manika Vishwakarma making it to the top 30 but not advancing to the final 12. The top 5 finalists included representatives from Thailand, Philippines, Venezuela, Mexico, and Côte d'Ivoire.

Ultimately, Fátima Bosch of Mexico won the crown, with Thailand's Praveenar Singh placing as first runner-up. However, the decision sparked immediate controversy, with some viewers questioning the judging criteria.

Comments comparing the finalists' answers flooded social media. "Mexico gave the worst answers and she won Miss Universe?" one user questioned, while another stated: "Unbiased opinion: Cote D'Ivoire delivers the best answer."

Why Yacé's Message Resonated

Olivia Yacé's responses touched on themes that transcend beauty pageantry. Her emphasis on self-love as a foundational skill addresses a critical gap in modern education, where emotional intelligence often takes a backseat to academic achievement.

Her vision of representation—encouraging young women to occupy spaces they've been told don't belong to them—speaks to ongoing conversations about diversity, inclusion, and breaking glass ceilings. In an era where authentic representation matters more than ever, Yacé's message felt timely and necessary.

One supporter articulated what many felt: "She was by far the most poised, eloquent, beautiful and decent… the only reason Miss Mexico won was because (Miss Universe president) Raul Rocha organised the event." While such claims remain unverified, they underscore the depth of feeling surrounding the outcome.

The Bigger Picture

This isn't the first time a Miss Universe result has sparked debate, nor will it be the last. Beauty pageants have evolved significantly over the decades, placing increasing emphasis on intelligence, advocacy, and social consciousness alongside traditional criteria.

The controversy surrounding the 2025 pageant highlights an ongoing tension: How should judges weigh different aspects of a contestant's performance? Should eloquence in the question-and-answer round carry more weight than stage presence? How much does a contestant's platform and vision for change matter?

Yacé's supporters argue that her combination of poise, substance, and inspirational messaging should have secured her victory. They point to her articulate responses as evidence of not just preparation, but genuine depth of character and vision.

India's Performance

India's representative, Manika Vishwakarma, also drew attention for her participation, making it to the top 30 and competing in the swimsuit round. While she didn't advance further, her presence continued India's proud tradition at the Miss Universe pageant.

The diverse field of competitors showcased talent from around the world, making the competition fierce and the judging decisions all the more scrutinized.

Looking Forward

Regardless of the official outcome, Olivia Yacé has clearly won something perhaps more valuable than a crown: the hearts and minds of viewers worldwide. Her messages about self-love, representation, and empowering the next generation will likely resonate far beyond the pageant stage.

As one supporter eloquently stated: "What truly matters is that your charisma left its mark on the universe." In that sense, perhaps everyone watching the 2025 Miss Universe pageant won something—a reminder that true beauty lies in authenticity, intelligence, and the courage to inspire others.

The debate surrounding Miss Universe 2025 will likely continue in pageant circles and on social media for months to come. But one thing seems certain: Olivia Yacé's performance has ensured that Côte d'Ivoire's representation at Miss Universe 2025 won't soon be forgotten.