Source: CCTV.com

07-16-2008 09:01

The 57th Miss Universe Pageant drew to its close, Monday, in the seaside city of Nha Trang, Vietnam. Taking the crown as Miss Universe 2008, is 22 year-old Miss Venezuela, Dayana Mendoza.

Miss Venezuela, Dayana Mendoza, was crowned Miss Universe.

Miss Venezuela, Dayana Mendoza, was crowned by previous Miss Universe Riyo Mori of Japan.

At a news conference after the ceremony, the 5-foot, 10-inch, green-eyed beauty said she wasn't sure where her year of whirlwind appearances eventually will take her. There'll be a quick stop in New York. But she really wants to see her family again, enjoy some home cooking and the warm embrace of her family.

Miss Venezuela, Dayana Mendoza, was crowned Miss Universe.

Clearly the stress of the event took its toll on Miss USA, Crystle Stewart of Texas. She tripped on the train of her bejeweled evening gown as she made her entrance.

It's become all part of the show of course. Last year, Rachel Smith, Miss USA 2007, took a tumble during the evening gown competition at the Miss Universe contest in Mexico City.