Stefania Fernandez beams upon being crowned Miss Universe 2009.
The lovely Miss Venezuela, Stefania Fernandez, was crowned Miss Universe 2009 last night. The 18-year-old (!) is a worthy title-holder, to say the least.She defeated finalists from Puerto Rico, Kosovo, Australia and the Dominican Republic. When she heard that Miss Dominican Republic, Ada Aimee De la Cruz, was named first Runner-Up, that meant Stefania Fernandez became the new Miss Universe.
Stefania is the second consecutive Miss Venezuela to win Miss Universe, and shared a hug with her predecessor, Dayana Mendoza, on stage after she won.
Receiving the tiara from Dayana, Stefania accidentally dropped the thing on stage. But with true grace and dignity, they rebounded as if nothing happened.
The second runner-up was Miss Kosovo Gona Dragusha, while Miss Australia Rachael Finch was third runner-up. Miss China Wang Jingyao was Miss Photogenic, while Miss Thailand Chutima Durongdej was named Miss Congeniality.
The top 15 finalists appeared in bathing suits before the final 10 were chosen for the evening gown segment. Pageant co-owner Donald Trump told reporters:
"I think this is the most beautiful group of women I've ever seen."
The televised event includes musical performances by Flo Rida, David Guetta, Kelly Rowland and Heidi Montag. We'll have a video of that disaster up later.
Stefania Fernandez was also named "Miss Elegance" "Best Body" and "Best Face." We're just hoping she doesn't add "Miss Nude Photo Scandal" shortly.
Stefania Fernandez Pictures:
