Miss Universe 2018: Judges' Scores & Highlights

Hey guys! Let's dive into the exciting world of beauty pageants and take a closer look at Miss Universe 2018. This event was a dazzling display of grace, intelligence, and poise, and the scores from the judges played a crucial role in determining who walked away with the coveted crown. In this article, we’ll break down the scoring system, highlight some of the standout performances, and explore what made this particular competition so memorable. So, grab your popcorn, and let's get started!

Understanding the Miss Universe Scoring System

The Miss Universe competition uses a detailed scoring system designed to evaluate contestants on various aspects, ensuring a fair and comprehensive assessment. The scoring process is typically divided into several stages, each focusing on different qualities and skills. Judges, who are experts from various fields, assign scores based on specific criteria at each stage.

Preliminary Competition

The preliminary competition is the first hurdle for the contestants. During this phase, the contestants participate in the swimsuit and evening gown rounds. Additionally, they undergo a closed-door interview with the judges. The scores from these segments determine who makes it to the next round.

• Swimsuit Round: In this round, contestants are evaluated on their physical fitness, stage presence, and confidence. The judges look for how well the contestants carry themselves and present a healthy image. A high score here indicates that the contestant has excellent poise and body confidence.
• Evening Gown Round: This segment focuses on elegance, style, and how well the contestant presents herself in formal attire. Judges consider the choice of gown, how it complements the contestant's figure, and her overall grace. A high score in this round suggests a sophisticated sense of style and poise.
• Interview Round: This is a critical part of the preliminary competition because it provides the judges with insight into the contestant's personality, intelligence, and communication skills. Contestants are asked a series of questions on various topics, allowing them to express their views and demonstrate their knowledge. Strong communication skills and thoughtful answers are essential for a high score.

The preliminary scores are crucial as they determine which contestants advance to the semi-final stage. Contestants need to perform well across all three segments to secure a spot in the next round.

Semi-Finals

The semi-final stage is where the competition intensifies. The contestants who advanced from the preliminary round compete again in swimsuit and evening gown, and typically a fresh round of interviews or on-stage questions. The scores from this stage are combined with the preliminary scores to determine the finalists.

• Swimsuit and Evening Gown (Again!): The contestants need to maintain their performance level from the preliminary round or even improve it. The judges are looking for consistency and continued excellence.
• On-Stage Question/Interview: This segment is often a make-or-break moment. Contestants are asked impromptu questions on stage, requiring them to think on their feet and articulate their thoughts clearly. The ability to provide thoughtful and relevant answers under pressure is highly valued.

Final Competition

The final competition is the most watched part of the event. Usually involving a smaller group of top contestants. This stage includes the final question round and the final look.

• Final Question Round: This is the last opportunity for the contestants to impress the judges with their intellect and communication skills. The questions are often more challenging and require contestants to provide well-reasoned and impactful answers. The ability to articulate a clear and persuasive response can significantly influence the judges' final scores.
• Final Look: The final look involves the finalists walking the stage one last time, allowing the judges to make a final assessment of their overall presence, poise, and confidence. This segment is about leaving a lasting impression and showcasing their best qualities.

Scoring Criteria

The judges evaluate contestants based on criteria such as poise, confidence, intelligence, communication skills, and overall stage presence. Each judge assigns a score, and the average of these scores determines the contestant's final score for each segment.

• Poise and Confidence: Contestants are expected to carry themselves with grace and confidence, demonstrating self-assurance in their movements and expressions. Poise reflects the ability to maintain composure under pressure, while confidence showcases a strong belief in oneself.
• Intelligence and Communication Skills: These are assessed through the interview and on-stage question rounds. Contestants need to provide thoughtful, well-articulated answers that demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of various topics. Clear and effective communication is essential for conveying their ideas and connecting with the audience.
• Stage Presence: This refers to how well a contestant commands attention on stage. It includes factors such as posture, facial expressions, and how they interact with the audience. A strong stage presence can captivate the judges and create a memorable impression.

Highlights from Miss Universe 2018

The Miss Universe 2018 competition, held in Bangkok, Thailand, was particularly memorable. Catriona Gray from the Philippines was crowned the winner, but the entire event was filled with notable moments and performances. The contestants represented a diverse array of cultures and backgrounds, making the competition a vibrant and inclusive celebration of beauty and intelligence.

Catriona Gray's Winning Performance

Catriona Gray’s victory was marked by her exceptional performance across all stages of the competition. Her stunning presence, articulate answers, and dedication to her advocacy made her a standout contestant. Catriona excelled in the swimsuit and evening gown rounds, showcasing her poise and elegance. However, it was her performance in the question-and-answer segments that truly set her apart.

In the final question round, Catriona was asked about her views on the most important lesson she had learned in her life. Her answer was both profound and inspiring, reflecting her deep understanding of social issues and her commitment to making a positive impact on the world. She spoke eloquently about working in the slums of Tondo, Manila, and how she learned to find beauty in difficult situations. This answer resonated with the judges and the audience, solidifying her position as a frontrunner.

Memorable Performances and Standout Contestants

While Catriona Gray ultimately won the crown, several other contestants delivered memorable performances. Each brought their unique strengths and stories to the competition, contributing to the overall richness and diversity of the event.

• Tamaryn Green (South Africa): As the first runner-up, Tamaryn Green impressed the judges with her grace and intelligence. She spoke passionately about her experience as a cancer survivor and her advocacy for cancer awareness. Her poise and resilience earned her admiration from viewers worldwide.
• Sthefany Gutiérrez (Venezuela): Sthefany Gutiérrez showcased her elegance and poise throughout the competition, reflecting the strong pageant tradition of Venezuela. Her confident presence and articulate answers made her a standout contestant.
• H'Hen Niê (Vietnam): H'Hen Niê made history as the first ethnic minority woman to represent Vietnam in Miss Universe. She received high praise for her authenticity, humility, and dedication to empowering women in her community. Her inspiring story and strong performance resonated with the audience, earning her a spot in the top five.

Key Moments and Highlights

In addition to the individual performances, several key moments stood out during the Miss Universe 2018 competition. These moments added to the excitement and drama of the event, creating lasting memories for viewers.

• The National Costume Show: The National Costume Show is always a highlight of the Miss Universe competition, showcasing the diverse cultures and traditions of the participating countries. Contestants wear elaborate and creative costumes that represent their heritage, providing a visual spectacle for the audience. The creativity and craftsmanship displayed in the costumes are truly impressive.
• The Preliminary Interviews: The preliminary interviews offer a more intimate glimpse into the contestants' personalities and backgrounds. These interviews allow the judges to assess the contestants' intelligence, communication skills, and passion for their advocacies. The insights gained from these interviews play a crucial role in determining who advances to the next stage of the competition.
• The Crowning Moment: The crowning moment is the culmination of weeks of hard work and dedication for the contestants. The announcement of the winner is always filled with anticipation and excitement, as the dream of becoming Miss Universe comes true for one deserving individual. Catriona Gray's emotional reaction to winning the crown was a touching moment that resonated with viewers around the world.

The Impact of the Scores

The scores from the judges are the backbone of the Miss Universe competition, determining who advances through each stage and ultimately who wins the crown. The scoring system aims to be fair and comprehensive, evaluating contestants on a variety of qualities and skills. However, the impact of these scores extends beyond the competition itself.

Fairness and Objectivity

While the Miss Universe scoring system strives for fairness and objectivity, it is essential to acknowledge that beauty pageants are inherently subjective. The judges' personal preferences and biases can influence their scores, making it difficult to achieve complete objectivity. However, the use of multiple judges from diverse backgrounds helps to mitigate these biases and ensure a more balanced assessment.

The Pressure on Contestants

The emphasis on scores and rankings can create significant pressure on the contestants. The competition is intense, and contestants are constantly aware that their performance is being scrutinized and evaluated. This pressure can take a toll on their mental and emotional well-being. It is important to remember that the Miss Universe competition is not just about winning or losing; it is also about personal growth, self-discovery, and building lasting friendships.

The Influence on Public Perception

The scores and rankings in Miss Universe can influence public perception of the contestants. The winner and top finalists often become role models and ambassadors for their countries, using their platform to advocate for social causes and inspire others. However, it is essential to recognize that the competition is just one aspect of a person's identity and that all the contestants have unique qualities and talents to offer.

Conclusion

The Miss Universe 2018 competition was a captivating event filled with memorable performances and inspiring stories. The scores from the judges played a crucial role in determining the outcome, highlighting the importance of poise, intelligence, and communication skills. Catriona Gray's victory was a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication, and her reign as Miss Universe has been marked by her commitment to making a positive impact on the world. While the competition is undoubtedly intense, it also provides a platform for contestants to showcase their unique qualities and inspire others to pursue their dreams. Keep shining, queens!