Miss USA 2025 Crowns New Queen as Predecessor Skips Final Ceremony

Audrey Eckert of Nebraska was crowned Miss USA 2025. The pageant took place on October 24th in Nevada. Eckert will now prepare for the Miss Universe competition.Her victory marks a significant moment for the state. She is the second woman from Nebraska to win the national title. The event was hosted by Emmanuel Acho and Olivia Jordan.

Eckert’s Victory Caps a Competitive Event

The 23-year-old winner triumphed over 50 other state contestants. Judges included former titleholders and entertainment figures. Eckert excelled in multiple rounds, including the state costume and preliminary competitions.According to Reuters, her overall score was the highest among the finalists. She now holds the title for the coming year. Her immediate focus is the upcoming international pageant in Thailand.

Former Titleholder’s Absence Sparks Discussion

The 2024 winner, Alma Cooper, did not attend the ceremony. She announced her decision in an Instagram statement hours before the event. Cooper cited her integrity and self-worth as reasons for her choice.Pageant leadership had expressed hope for her participation. Miss USA CEO Thom Brodeur had publicly invited her. He stated the organization wanted to provide a dignified end to her reign.The organization has affirmed its respect for Cooper. Brodeur emphasized she remains “forever our Miss USA 2025.” This departure from tradition highlighted internal tensions within the pageant world.

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The crowning of Miss USA 2025 marks a new chapter for the organization, one that navigates both celebration and visible change within its storied history.

Info at your fingertips

Who won Miss USA 2025?

Audrey Eckert, representing Nebraska, won the Miss USA 2025 title. She is a 23-year-old who beat 50 other contestants. Eckert will now compete for Miss Universe.

Why did the previous winner not attend?

Alma Cooper, Miss USA 2024, chose not to attend the crowning. She stated she made a difficult decision to protect her integrity. Cooper did not pass down the crown to her successor in person.

What did the Miss USA organization say about her absence?

CEO Thom Brodeur said the invitation for her to participate remained open. He expressed honor for her as their queen. The organization respected her decision while affirming her place in its history.

Where will the new Miss USA compete next?

Audrey Eckert will travel to Thailand to compete in Miss Universe 2025. This is the next major step for the titleholder. The international competition is scheduled for November.

How many contestants were in the competition?

There were 51 contestants in the Miss USA 2025 pageant. Each represented a state or the District of Columbia. The event was held at the Grand Sierra Resort.