Audrey Eckert from Nebraska was crowned Miss USA 2025 during the 74th Miss USA Pageant held at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. The event marked the pageant's return after nearly 18 months of turbulence, including allegations of misconduct, toxic work environment, and leadership changes. Eckert, 23, a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and former NCAA athlete, beat 50 contestants to win the title, which makes her the second Nebraskan to hold the crown since Sarah Rose Summers in 2018. She will compete in the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand on November 21. The pageant's recent turmoil began with the resignation of Miss USA 2023, Noelia Voigt, amid allegations of harassment and a toxic environment, and subsequent disputes over ownership rights after businessman Thom Brodeur acquired the rights from the Miss Universe Organization. The event was hosted by Victoria Kjær Theilvig, Miss Universe 2024, instead of the previous year's winner, and included a variety of competitions and Q&A segments. The pageant's leadership has been under scrutiny, with lawsuits filed and claims of mistreatment and contractual breaches by former organizers. Despite the controversy, the 2025 pageant emphasized a 'new era' with reforms, including allowing older contestants and those wearing hijabs. The event was broadcast via a streaming service, breaking from tradition. Eckert's victory symbolizes a potential fresh start for the pageant amid ongoing legal and organizational disputes.