Alejandra Rodríguez’s aspiration to become the oldest Miss Universe contestant comes to a close in Argentina

Alejandra Marisa Rodríguez, a 60-year-old woman, made headlines as she competed in the Miss Universe Argentina pageant with the hopes of becoming the oldest contestant in history. Despite falling short of the Miss Argentina crown, Rodríguez did take home the title of “best face,” showcasing her timeless beauty and grace on stage.

Rodríguez, a hospital legal adviser from La Plata, south of Buenos Aires, gained local fame after winning the Miss Buenos Aires competition last month. Her entry into the Miss Universe pageant, which eliminated its age limit, was celebrated as a triumph over ageism in a society that often values youth above all else.

During the competition, Rodríguez exuded confidence and elegance, offering moisturizer tips to women in the audience and proving that age is just a number. Her poised demeanor and stunning features captivated the crowd, with fans cheering her on as she competed in the swimsuit and evening gown portions of the contest.

Despite her impressive performance, the judges ultimately crowned Magali Benejam, a 29-year-old actress and model from Cordoba, as Miss Argentina. Benejam, who wore a skimpy blue bikini and sky-high stilettos, will represent Argentina in the global Miss Universe competition in Mexico City in November.

The victory of Benejam, who would have been ineligible to compete just a year ago due to the pageant’s age limit of 28, highlights the evolving standards of beauty and inclusivity in the Miss Universe contest. For the first time in its 73-year history, the competition is welcoming participants over the age of 18, breaking barriers and challenging traditional notions of beauty and femininity.

As the pageant continues to adapt to a changing cultural landscape, embracing diversity and empowerment, Rodríguez’s participation as a 60-year-old contestant has sparked conversations about beauty standards and ageism. While some praised her decision to compete and applauded her timeless beauty, others questioned whether she was setting an unrealistic standard for older women.

Argentine feminist activist Lala Pasquinelli expressed concerns about the pressure on women to maintain a youthful appearance, noting that not all 60-year-old women can or should be expected to look like Rodríguez. The debate surrounding beauty, age, and societal expectations continues to evolve as the Miss Universe contest strives to redefine its image and values in a modern world.

Rodríguez’s journey from obscurity to the spotlight, her graceful presence on stage, and her message of empowerment and self-acceptance serve as a reminder that beauty knows no age limit. As she continues to inspire others to embrace their unique beauty and pursue their dreams, Rodríguez remains a symbol of resilience, confidence, and grace in a world that often values youth over experience.