Joey Chestnut Wins 18th Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island

Joey Chestnut secured his 18th victory in the Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest held on July 4th at Coney Island, Brooklyn. Competing before approximately 25,000 spectators during the American Independence Day celebrations, Chestnut consumed 66 hot dogs and buns within 10 minutes. Although this performance was below his 2021 record of 76 hot dogs, it was enough to reclaim the championship belt. Chestnut, 41, dominated the men's competition from the start and finished well ahead of second-place Patrick Bertoletti, who ate 50 hot dogs, and third-place Australian James Webb, who ate 48. Chestnut attributed the lower count to challenging weather conditions but maintained composure to add another title to his career.

In the women's contest, champion Miki Sudo continued her dominance by winning her 12th title with 38.75 hot dogs, significantly ahead of her competitors. However, she did not approach her personal best of 51 hot dogs set in 2024. Chestnut's win marks a notable comeback after missing the 2024 contest due to a sponsorship dispute involving a plant-based food brand. Returning in 2025, he won again and now adds this latest victory on the 250th anniversary of the United States' Independence Day. Chestnut received a $10,000 prize and reinforced his status as the most prominent figure in competitive eating.