Miss Japan crowned Miss Universe 2007

MEXICO CITY - Riyo Mori, a 20-year-old dancer from Japan who hopes to someday open an international dance school, was crowned Miss Universe 2007 Monday night. Miss USA Rachel Smith, who slipped and fell to the floor during the evening gown competition, was the contest's fourth runner-up.

Winner of Miss Universe 2007, Miss Japan Riyo Mori parades in the evening gown competition of the pageant at the National Auditorium in Mexico City May 28, 2007. [Reuters]

Mori nervously grabbed the hands of first runner-up, Natalia Guimaraes of Brazil, just before the winner was announced and then showed her delight as the diamond-and pearl-studded crown was placed on her head.

Also finishing in the top five were second runner-up Ly Jonaitis of Venezuela and third runner-up Honey Lee of Korea.

The winner travels the world for a year on behalf of charities and pageant sponsors. Zuleyka Rivera Mendoza of Puerto Rico crowned her successor at the end of the two-hour telecast with the headpiece valued at $250,000.