South Africa has finally ended its four decades of drought in the Miss World pageant after Rolene Strauss bested 120 contestants to win the crown in the very birthplace of the prestigious beauty contest on Sunday in London, England.
Strauss, the 22-year old medical student, has become the latest heiress to the crown of Miss World, making her the second South African to win the title and third one to hold the title in history.
Moreover, Strauss' victory also marked the first time a South African beauty queen holds the title of a 'Big Four' pageant competition since Anneline Kriel succeeded 1974 Miss World winner Helen Elizabeth Morgan, who was stripped of the crown four days after the pageant on a discovery that she already had a child.
According to betting trends prior to the coronation night, Strauss was among the favorites to win the crown at 6/4. Miss Hungary Edina Kulcsar placed runner-up while Miss USA Elizabeth Safrit took the third place.
"South Africa this is for you," Strauss said after winning the crown before millions of people watching across five continents. "I think I will brace myself for what's about to happen. It's a huge responsibility.
Megan Young, who became the first representative from the Philippines to win the crown last year in Bali, Indonesia, also left some words of encouragements to her successor.
"I hope Miss South Africa enjoys her year as much as I did. Be ready for challenges, be ready for anything that comes your way," said Young, who is expected to join Strauss in carrying out humanitarian missions for Miss World organization.
Miss World 2014 Results, Replays & Photos:
Full Results of the entire Miss World competition from minor awards, semifinalists and finalists can be found on the Miss World 2014 wikipedia page, while exclusive photos and replay are now available below:
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