Czech Republic's Krystyna Pyszková crowned Miss World 2024

The Czech Republic's Krystyna Pyszková has emerged victorious in the 71st annual Miss World international beauty pageant, held in Mumbai on Saturday evening. Pyszková, hailing from Třinec in Czechia's Moravian-Silesian Region, has become the second Czech to win the coveted following Taťána Kuchařová in 2006.

Competing alongside 112 contestants from around the globe, Pyszková showcased grace and charm during the pageant, securing her place among the top finalists on Saturday. In the finale, she outshone contestants from Lebanon, Trinidad and Tobago, and Botswana. Lebanon's Yasmina Zaytoun was named runner-up.

The crowning moment for Pyszková came as she received the Miss World crown from her predecessor, Karolina Bielawská from Poland, who won the 70th edition of the competition in 2021.

"Great news!" wrote Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský on social media in response to Pyszková's victory. "I had the opportunity to personally support her last week during an unplanned long layover in India and I wish her every success. Good luck in her future career!"

Lipavský, who was returning to the Czech Republic after a delegation in Asia, had become stranded in India due to a plane malfunction when he was invited to the pageant by Taťána Makarenko, director of Miss Czech Republic.

Former Miss World Taťána Kuchařová also took to Instagram to celebrate Pyszková's victory, emphasizing the pride of having another Czech representative. "I will finally have a partner in the Czech Republic," Kuchařová  wrote, adding that the Miss World title was "a privilege and a lifetime commitment."

"Miss Krystyna is from Třinec, she went to grammar school here," Třinec Mayor Věra Palkovská told Czech News Agency. "I want to do more than just congratulate her. I am happy that successful people come from Třinec, not only in hockey, but on all fronts."

The Miss World competition was first created in 1951 by British television host Eric Morley as a one-off event, but has evolved into one of the most prestigious beauty pageants worldwide, showcasing beauty and talent from diverse cultures.

Pyszková's victory adds to a legacy of celebrated Czech wins in pageants across the globe, which include not only Kuchařová's previous Miss World title but also Czech success in competitions like Miss Europe and Miss Earth.