Philippines contestant Catriona Gray named Miss Universe
BANGKOK (AP) - Catriona Gray of the Philippines was named winner of the Miss Universe 2018 competition in the Thai capital Bangkok, besting contestants from 93 other countries to claim the prize.
The 24-year-old Gray edged out first runner-up Tamaryn Green of South Africa and third-place Sthefany Gutierrez of Venezuela.
Gray succeeds the 2017 winner, Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters of South Africa.
The theme of the 67th Miss Universe pageant was "Empowered Women" and was judged by seven women including former pageant winners, businesswomen, and a fashion designer.
Miss Philippines Catriona Gray waves after being crowned Miss Universe during the final round of 67th Miss Universe competition in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, Dec. 17, 2018.(AP Photo/Gemunu Amarasinghe)
Miss Universe 2017 Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters, of South Africa, right, crowns new Miss Universe Catriona Gray, of Philippines, during the final of 67th Miss Universe competition in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, Dec. 17, 2018.(AP Photo/Gemunu Amarasinghe)
Miss Philippines Catriona Gray, second from left, is interviewed by the host during the final of 67th Miss Universe competition in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, Dec. 17, 2018.(AP Photo/Gemunu Amarasinghe)
Top 3 finalists from left to right, Miss Venezuela Sthefany Gutierrez, Miss South Africa Tamaryn Green, Miss Philippines Catriona Gray, stand on the stage during the final of 67th Miss Universe competition in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, Dec. 17, 2018.(AP Photo/Gemunu Amarasinghe)
Finalists stand on stage during the final of 67th Miss Universe competition in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, Dec. 17, 2018.(AP Photo/Gemunu Amarasinghe)
Miss Philippines Catriona Gray, second from left, walks on the stage during the final of 67th Miss Universe competition in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, Dec. 17, 2018.(AP Photo/Gemunu Amarasinghe)