The countdown to one of the world’s most glamorous events has officially begun. Miss Universe 2025 is now in its final stage, with 122 dazzling contestants gathered in Thailand, where the successor to Victoria Kjær Theilvig will soon be crowned.
The competition has already proven to be a mix of beauty, empowerment, and unexpected twists. From dazzling runway moments to last-minute withdrawals, this year’s edition has kept fans on edge and social media users shocked.
© Rodrigo VarelaA Global Stage of Beauty and Purpose
Over the past few weeks, contestants from every corner of the globe have been giving their all, walking runways, taking part in charity projects, and attending cultural events designed to test not only their confidence but also their compassion and leadership. Judges are closely watching as each candidate showcases what the Miss Universe brand calls “beauty with a purpose.”
Around the world, fans have taken sides, passionately supporting their favorite contestants, often rallying behind their national representatives. But while excitement grows for the grand finale, some nations will not be competing this year due to unexpected circumstances.
Miss Universe 2025 Contestants who Withdrew
© Miss GermanyGermany’s Diana Fast
One of the most emotional withdrawals came from Miss Universe Germany, Diana Fast, who decided to step away from the competition for deeply personal reasons. The mother of a five-year-old, Diana, chose to prioritize her family as she focuses on building a new home for her son.
Her organization showed unwavering support, keeping her official title intact and declining to send a replacement. Instead, they turned the spotlight on compassion by donating over $34,000 (30,000 euros) to HeartPawject, a Thai organization that rescues and shelters injured or homeless animals. It was a classy act of kindness that perfectly embodied the Miss Universe spirit.
© Getty ImagesPersia’s Sahar Biniaz
Midway through October, the pageant world was shaken when Sahar Biniaz, Miss Universe Persia 2025, announced her withdrawal in solidarity with her national director, Golshan Barazesh, who had been detained during a visit to Iran. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Sahar wrote, “Out of deep respect and concern for her safety and well-being, I’ve made the difficult decision to withdraw from this year’s competition.”
This isn’t the first time fate has intervened in Sahar’s Miss Universe dreams. Back in 2012, she was crowned Miss Universe Canada but was forced to withdraw after a foot injury prevented her from competing in Las Vegas.
© IG: @zoulahatouamadouNiger’s Missed Opportunity
For Zoulahatou Amadou, Miss Universe 2025 was meant to be historic, Niger’s first-ever participation in the global pageant. Unfortunately, logistical setbacks grounded her journey. “My plane ticket arrived too late, and the available flights no longer allowed me to reach Bangkok in time,” she explained.
In a rare act of understanding, organizers invited her to compete in the 2026 edition, giving her the chance to return stronger, better prepared, and ready to represent her country with pride.
© IG: @xuhe_houChina’s Age Restriction Controversy
Before the journey to Thailand began, Xuhe Hou was set to represent China. However, she resigned due to personal reasons reportedly tied to the organization’s age restrictions, a rule that has stirred debate among fans.
In her place, Zhao Na, the first runner-up, has stepped into the spotlight and is now competing for the coveted crown.
© IG: Miss universe Democratic Republic of CongoDrama in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
In early September, Miss Universe Congo faced turmoil when its titleholder, Déborah Djema, was dismissed after refusing to sign her contract. The organization requested that she remove all traces of her coronation from social media.
With the first and second runners-up unavailable due to prior commitments, the committee ultimately appointed Dorcas Dienda Kasinde to represent the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Thailand.
Other Nations Sitting Out
Several countries, including Bahrain, Cameroon, Cyprus, Eritrea, Fiji, Gibraltar, Kenya, the Maldives, Mongolia, Montenegro, Samoa, Somalia, and Uzbekistan, will not be sending representatives this year. Most of them were unable to hold national pageants or finalize their candidate selections before the competition began.
Despite the challenges, the Miss Universe 2025 pageant remains a dazzling celebration of diversity, ambition, and resilience. As Thailand hosts the final stages, fans eagerly await to see who will earn the crown and step into Victoria Kjær Theilvig’s heels as the next global ambassador of beauty and purpose.
