Venezuela repeats at Miss Universe contest

Dressed in a red gown, Fernandez embraced runner up Miss Dominican Republic as the announcement was made, and received the crown from last year's winner, Dayana Mendoza, of Venezuela.

The sparkling tiara fell to the floor at one point, as Fernandez danced in joy. Miss Dominican Republic, Ada Aimee de la Cruz, was the runner up.

Miss China, Wang Jingyao, was named Miss Congeniality and Miss Thailand, Chutima Durongdej, won Miss Photogenic.

Millions of television viewers around the world followed the ceremony that was held at the Atlantis Hotel in the Bahamas.