The Miss World 2025 competition closed with a historic moment for Thailand, as Suchata Chuangsri was crowned the new titleholder—the first Thai woman to achieve the distinction in the pageant’s 72-year history. Held at the HITEX Exhibition Centre in Hyderabad, India, the global gala brought together 108 contestants from around the world for one of the most watched editions of the international competition.
At 21, Chuangsri, who is originally from Phuket, brings a profile that blends beauty, academic focus, and advocacy. A Political Science student specializing in International Relations at Thammasat University, she speaks Thai, English, and Chinese. Her initiative, “OpalForHer,” centered on breast cancer awareness, became a defining part of her journey to the crown. The cause is deeply personal: Chuangsri has spoken about overcoming a tumor at the age of 16, an experience that shaped her commitment to women’s health.
The final results reflected a diverse and highly competitive field:
- Winner: Suchata Chuangsri (Thailand)
- First runner-up: Hasset Dereje Admassu (Ethiopia)
- Second runner-up: Maja Klajda (Poland)
- Third runner-up: Aurélie Joachim (Martinique)
The evening was hosted by Stephanie Del Valle, Miss World 2016, alongside Indian presenter Sachiin Kumbhar. The symbolic passing of the crown was led by Krystyna Pyszková, Miss World 2024, marking the transition into a new chapter for the organization.
A crown surrounded by conversation
Beyond the celebratory tone of the finale, this year’s edition also drew international attention for its controversies. England’s representative, Milla Magee, withdrew from the competition after alleging that she and other contestants had been “exploited” by being expected to entertain sponsors during lavish dinners. Magee later said she felt uncomfortable with the circumstances and claimed she had fabricated a family emergency in order to leave India. The Miss World organization denied the allegations, releasing material that it said showed Magee enjoying the event and underscoring the support provided during her departure.
Chuangsri’s own path to Miss World also sparked debate. She had previously competed in Miss Universe Thailand 2024, where she placed third, and her participation in Miss World was viewed by some as a breach of contractual obligations tied to the Miss Universe organization. The dispute ultimately led to her disqualification from that pageant, adding another layer of complexity to a victory that was both celebrated and closely examined.
Still, the coronation of Suchata Chuangsri as Miss World 2025 stands as a defining milestone for Thailand and a reminder of the evolving role of modern beauty queens. Her story—rooted in resilience, public service, and personal purpose—resonated with judges and audiences alike, positioning her as a global ambassador for beauty with a purpose.