Rebecca Ferguson was praised for "connecting with her inner diva" with her own unique take on Eurythmics' Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This).
The Liverpudlian mother-of-two wore a short gold dress and dark lipstick to sing the song, which was praised unanimously by the judges.
Louis Walsh didn't hold back in his praise, saying to the people of Liverpool that Rebecca was "the best role model you're ever going to have" and that she was "living proof that nice people can do well in the music business".
He added that she was "the nicest contestant ever" and later told Dermot O'Leary that, even though she wasn't in his category, she was "the girl who could sell the most records internationally out of everyone in the final".
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Dannii Minogue said: "You connected with your inner diva, your inner sparkle that we knew was there."
Simon Cowell was also impressed, saying: "I think that's what you call pulling the rabbit out the hat, that was a brilliant song choice and a stunning performance, well done."
Rebecca's mentor Cheryl looked like she'd burst with pride, and said: "I've been trying for weeks now to find out a way to give you the right words, the confidence that you lost... but tonight you did it all by yourself, your star is shining brighter than ever."
Rebecca was overwhelmed with all the praise, and said simply: "I hope I've done enough."
