On the morning of 5/9, dozens of beauty pages and forums released their prediction charts for the 73rd Miss World competition, which took place in Khanh Hoa on the evening of the same day. Many renowned outlets selected Bao Ngoc as the top contender for the crown. Following her were prominent beauties from France, Brazil, and the Philippines.

Miss World 2026 prediction charts from Missosology (left) and Sash Factor, released on the morning of 5/9.

This marks the first time a Vietnamese contestant at Miss World has received such high praise before the final. Experts made their selections based on observations of contestants' performances over nearly one month in the competition. Before the final, Bao Ngoc secured a spot in the top 40 after winning the "Top Model Asia" title. She also garnered attention in other sub-contests, earning the affection of many contestants due to her friendliness.

In recent seasons, predictions from Missosology and Sash Factor have been accurate, closely aligning with the judges' choices. According to many viewers, while predictions do not influence the final outcome, they acknowledge Bao Ngoc's efforts and boost her confidence before the final round.

Bao Ngoc expressed gratitude for the affection and evaluations from the beauty pages. "I feel no pressure; instead, I have gained more confidence. The greatest thing I have received throughout this journey is the love from domestic and international audiences," she said.

Bao Ngoc participated in the general rehearsal on the evening of 4/9 with 110 contestants. Finishing late, she was moved when her parents appeared to offer moral support. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Thu Hai expressed her wish for her daughter to stay healthy and strive harder to bring pride to the audience. Bao Ngoc also received many good luck wishes from friends and showbiz colleagues, including Miss Thanh Thuy, Y Nhi, Le Hoang Phuong, Kieu Duy, and runner-ups Ngoc Hang, Dao Hien.

Before stepping onto the stage for the decisive night, Bao Ngoc stated she felt mentally at ease. She said she would accept all results with a calm demeanor.

The beauty, full name Le Nguyen Bao Ngoc, is 25 years old, from Can Tho, and stands 1.86 m tall. She was crowned Miss Intercontinental 2022. In recent years, Bao Ngoc founded Gen Zero, an organization empowering young people to engage in climate and sustainable development issues, while also preparing to pursue a master's degree in public policy and environment in the US.

After 72 seasons, Miss World is held for the first time in Vietnam, organized by Sen Vang company in collaboration with the Miss World Organization. The event spanned three provinces: Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, and Khanh Hoa, from 8/8 to 5/9. The final took place on an outdoor stage, set up on Nha Trang beach within 2/4 Square.

First held in 1951, Miss World is one of the two largest and oldest beauty pageants globally, alongside Miss Universe. The competition celebrates global solidarity by seeking young women with beauty, education, and meaningful community projects.

Tan Cao