Miss Universe 2023: Top 10 Finalists Revealed Amid Memorable Moments and Unexpected Twists

The excitement surrounding the 72nd installment of Miss Universe has peaked as the competition reveals its top 10 finalists. Hosted for the first time at the José Adolfo Pineda Arena in El Salvador, this year's pageant has been filled with memorable moments and unexpected twists, including the unfortunate departure of India's Shweta Sharda, a talented model and dancer, from the competition. Originally from Chandigarh, the 22-year-old Sharda was a standout contestant throughout the preliminary rounds, captivating audiences with her poise and skills.

Despite making significant progress and earning a spot in the semi-finals, Sharda's journey came to an end after the swimsuit round, as she did not advance to the evening gown segment. The top 10 finalists for Miss Universe 2023 are Miss Puerto Rico, Thailand, Peru, Colombia, Nicaragua, Philippines, El Salvador, Venezuela, Australia, and Spain. These exceptional contestants are set to compete for the prestigious title, promising an exciting finale.

One of the notable moments of this year's pageant was Erica Robin's inclusion in the Top 20, marking a historic achievement for Pakistan. However, Robin did not manage to secure a spot in the top 10 finalists. This year's pageant is particularly unique as it is entirely hosted by women, with Former Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo and TV personalities Jeannie Mai and Maria Menounos taking the stage.

In a surprising turn of events, Miss Universe China, Qi Jia, faced visa issues that prevented her from competing in the pageant. Despite her efforts to secure the necessary visa on time, the delay ultimately led to Qi Jia missing out on the international event. The initial lineup for the prestigious pageant included contestants from ninety countries, highlighting the global diversity and inclusivity of the competition.

Noteworthy participants this year include Marina Machete from Portugal and Rikkie Kollé from the Netherlands, who made history as the first transgender women to compete in Miss Universe. Their presence marks a significant step towards greater inclusivity and representation in beauty pageants. As the competition heats up and the top 10 finalists gear up for the grand finale, fans around the world eagerly await the crowning of the next Miss Universe.

Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from this year's unforgettable pageant.