Miss Universe Strips Thai Beauty Queen of Title Over Miss World Appearance
Thailand’s beauty pageant scene has been shaken by a dramatic move from the Miss Universe Organisation, which officially revoked the third runner-up title of Suchata “Opal” Chuangsri after she breached her contract by appearing in a Miss World Thailand event.
What Sparked the Controversy?
On April 22, Opal, crowned Miss Universe Thailand 2024, participated in a press conference titled “New World New1# Chapter, Road to Miss World 2025” at Channel 7HD’s Studio 8. There, she was introduced as Thailand’s representative for the 72nd Miss World competition, scheduled for May 31 in Hyderabad, India.
The event, hosted by Tero Entertainment and TPN Global, marked Opal’s transition into the Miss World pageant — a clear violation of her contract with the Miss Universe Organisation (MUO).
Official Statement from MUO
The Miss Universe Organisation wasted no time responding:
“Due to the breach of her contractual obligations by participating in an external pageant, this decision underscores our expectation that all winners fulfil their duties throughout their entire reign.”
Industry Tensions on the Rise
This development adds fuel to an already volatile atmosphere in Thailand’s pageant industry. Earlier this year, TPN Global lost the Miss Universe Thailand license to Miss Grand International Public Company Limited (MGI), which signed a new five-year deal valued at 180 million baht. The competition between global pageant franchises has only intensified.
Opal’s Response: Eyes on Miss World
Despite the fallout, Opal remained composed:
“I don’t think being dismissed will affect my participation in Miss World. What matters most is dedication, determination, and my performance there.”
She reaffirmed her focus on advocacy for young women and cancer patients, declaring that this setback won’t hinder her mission to inspire and serve globally.
TPN Global’s Piyaporn Sankosik supported her, saying that while MUO’s decision is significant, it won’t affect Opal’s Miss World participation.
Looking Forward
Though MUO’s decision shocked many in the pageant community, Opal appears undeterred. As she sets her sights on Miss World 2025, her story is evolving into one of resilience and redefinition — turning controversy into a platform for purpose-driven leadership.
