Miss Nebraska Audrey Eckert Crowned Miss USA 2025 in Reno

Audrey Eckert of Nebraska won the Miss USA 2025 crown on Friday, October 24. The event was held at the Grand Sierra Resort & Casino in Reno, Nevada. Eckert triumphed over a large pool of talented competitors to claim the prestigious title.

Her victory was decided by a celebrity judging panel. The win sends her to represent the United States at the 74th Miss Universe competition in Thailand.

Eckert’s Confident Journey to the Crown

Just hours before the finals, Eckert shared her mindset on Instagram. She posted a photo of herself getting a spray tan ahead of the competition. “The glow hits different when you’re chasing your dreams,” her caption read.

She expressed feeling confident and ready for the finals. Her final pre-pageant post has since been flooded with congratulatory messages from fans.

Supporters celebrated her new role as Miss USA. Many comments expressed excitement to see her compete on the international Miss Universe stage later this year.

Eckert also earned a preliminary swimsuit award during the competition. She described the experience as “surreal” in a social media post. Her custom evening gown was inspired by Hollywood glamour and Audrey Hepburn.

A High-Profile Panel Selects the Winner

The judges included notable figures from entertainment and fashion. The panel featured “Dancing with the Stars” alum Sasha Farber and former Miss USA Nia Sanchez.

Other judges included Bachelor Nation’s Jade Roper Tolbert and designers Kenneth Barlis and Hannah Edwards. According to Us Weekly, Farber was thrilled to participate in the event.

He said it was inspiring to witness the contestants’ journeys. The judges’ diverse backgrounds brought a wide range of perspectives to the scoring process.

The selection process evaluated contestants on multiple criteria. This included poise, confidence, and their unique personal stories.

Audrey Eckert now begins her reign as Miss USA 2025. Her immediate focus will be preparing for the upcoming Miss Universe competition, where she will carry the hopes of the nation on the global stage.

Thought you’d like to know

Who were the judges for Miss USA 2025?

The judging panel included Sasha Farber from “Dancing with the Stars” and Miss USA 2014 Nia Sanchez. It also featured Bachelor Nation’s Jade Roper Tolbert and fashion designers Kenneth Barlis and Hannah Edwards.

Where was the Miss USA 2025 competition held?

The event took place at the Grand Sierra Resort & Casino in Reno, Nevada. It was broadcast live on the evening of October 24.

What happens now that Audrey Eckert has won?

As Miss USA 2025, she will represent the United States at the Miss Universe competition. The 74th Miss Universe pageant is scheduled to be held in Thailand.

Did Audrey Eckert win any preliminary awards?

Yes, she was recognized with the preliminary swimsuit award before the finals. This honor was part of the competition’s preliminary events leading up to the main show.

What did the winner say before the finals?

Eckert posted on Instagram about feeling confident and grateful. She dedicated her performance to her home state of Nebraska just hours before being crowned.