Thailand's Opal Chuangsri dethroned as Miss Universe 2024 3rd runner-up over rules violation
The Miss Universe Organization has officially withdrawn the title and placement of Miss Universe 2024 3rd runner-up Suchata "Opal" Chuangsri of Thailand, citing a violation of competition rules.
In a statement released on Tuesday, April 22, MUO confirmed the decision following an internal review.
MUO stated that they discovered TPN Global, the organizer of Miss Universe Thailand, had not adhered to the rules set by national directors, allowing a Miss Universe titleholder to participate in another pageant before completing her reign.
"For this reason, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw the third runner-up title from the person who had been honored with it, due to the breach of her contractual obligations by participating in an external pageant," it said, not directly mentioning Chuangsri.
The pageant organizer emphasized that the role of a Miss Universe comes with a "responsibility that requires dedications and respect for commitments agreed upon."
"This decision underscores our expectation that all winners fulfill their duties throughout their entire reign. The actions of the [national directors] compromise the decorum and professionalism of the Queen's full 12-month service," it added.
Ultimately, MUO said that they will enforce stricter regulations for all national directors starting May 1, as they believe that the organization's shared goal is "to empower the Miss Universe family to maintain mutual respect, faith, and trust among all its members."
The statement coincides with TPN Global's announcement that Chuangsri will represent Thailand in the upcoming 72nd Miss World competition, scheduled to take place in Telangana, India, from May 7 to 31.
"Embodying Beauty With a Purpose, representing #THAILAND with pride at the historic 72nd Miss World competition," the post read alongside the official portrait of Chuangsri as Miss World Thailand.
Meanwhile, Krishnah Gravidez will represent the Philippines in the coming competition. She aims to bring home the country's second Miss World crown, following Megan Young's win in 2013.
Chuangsri emerged as the third runner-up in the 73rd Miss Universe held in Mexico in November 2024.
