Choosing a favorite for Miss Universe seems a formidable task, with 120 candidates vying for the crown. However, preliminary activities leading up to the main event offer crucial insights into who might advance to the top-30, top-10, and ultimately win.
Forecasting the winner is further complicated by recent competition history. The crown has moved across continents in recent years, from South Africa to Mexico in 2019 and 2020, then to India, the United States, Nicaragua, and most recently, Denmark.
According to expert “missologists,” who meticulously analyze candidates’ performances in Thailand, some are bold enough to name not just the Top 10 finalists, but the potential absolute winner. These experts evaluate runway presence, communication skills, and social advocacy.
Aldana Masset, Miss Argentina, is a strong contender. Analysts, including missologist Ramiro Barrio, praise her exceptional camera presence, noting her ability to showcase her face on any runway. The 25-year-old professional makeup artist, image consultant, and law student demonstrates impressive stage confidence.
Olivia Yacee, Miss Côte d’Ivoire, is a surprise favorite. Peruvian missologist Jens Castro predicts she will not only make the top-10 but win the 2025 Miss Universe title. She was an early arrival in Thailand and has consistently stood out for her beauty, friendliness, and strong public connection. Castro commented, “She stood out in the preliminary, in the swimsuit show, she has done everything correctly. She is an amazing queen, a beautiful brunette.”
Ahtisa Manalo, Miss Philippines, is widely expected to reach the Top 10. The entrepreneur is known for her charisma and strong public support on social media platforms. The Philippines boasts a formidable pageant record, having won the crown four times, with the most recent victories in 2018 and 2015.
Stephany Abasali, Miss Venezuela, is another favorite among analysts. The 25-year-old economist is admired for her elegance, communication talent, and exceptional oratory skills. Her angelic face helps her shine brightly among her peers. Venezuela has not secured the crown since 2013.
Praveenar Singh, representing host country Thailand, consistently appears in most Top 10 lists circulating online. Her key attributes are strong stage projection and notable sensuality. She was a standout during the evening gown show, and the advantage of being the local delegate often boosts public support and reception.
Fátima Bosch, Miss Mexico, shines through her beauty, confidence, and steadfast presence before the cameras. She recently gained attention following an incident with Thai executive Nawat Itsaragrisil. While preliminary activities do not dictate judging, the controversy put her in the spotlight and showcased her strength as a female representative.
Camila Vitorino, Miss Portugal, is considered one of the most beautiful faces of the 2025 edition. Her status as a married woman and mother makes her participation particularly noteworthy and challenging for the judges. Her performance thus far has earned her a rightful place among the top favorites.
Zashely Alicea, Miss Puerto Rico, excelled in the preliminary swimsuit runway. Her “golden glow” dress during the evening gown segment also impressed. She combines discipline, confidence, and a strong charisma that elevates her chances for the Top 10 and potentially the crown. Miss Puerto Rico has been a sensation since her arrival in Thailand.
Other candidates frequently mentioned as favorites include Yamilex Hernández (Miss Universe Latina), Inna Moll (Miss Chile), Zhao Zena (Miss China), Nadia Mejía (Miss Ecuador), and Mikaella Tomanova (Miss Czech Republic).
The Miss Universe 2025 event is scheduled for Friday, November 21. It will take place at the Impact Arena in Pak Kret, Thailand. Denmark’s Victoria Kjær, the reigning Miss Universe, will crown her international successor.