In a seismic move for world pageantry, the Miss Universe Organization has announced the removal of age restrictions for all Miss Universe and associated pageants.
The historic shift will now see MUO welcoming women of all ages to compete for the coveted Miss Universe title.
For over seven decades, the MUO had maintained an age limit, allowing only women aged between 18 to 28 to participate in its competitions.
On 13 September, the organization posted on its official Instagram account: "The Miss Universe Organization announces the elimination of all age limits across all Miss Universe and associate pageants."
The shift will become effective for all pageants in 2024, with women aged 29 and older now eligible to vie for what is deemed the most prestigious beauty title in the world.
"Starting then, every adult in the world will be eligible to join the Miss Universe," said the MOU.
R'Bonney Gabriel, the 29-year-old reigning queen from the USA, gave an exclusive interview to Women's Wear Daily in which she discussed this major step toward inclusivity.
"A woman's ability to compete at Miss Universe, or anything in life, shouldn't be defined by her age. Age should just be a number," she said.
This landmark decision to eliminate age restrictions comes on the heels of MUO's previous announcement that it would allow mothers and wives to participate in the competition, further reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
The Miss Universe 2023 coronation night is scheduled for 18 November in El Salvador.