Thailand’s first Miss World winner and other iconic winners through the years

A new queen has been crowned, and she’s making history. Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri has just clinched the title of Miss World 2025 on May 31—and with it, the hearts of millions around the globe. Out of 108 contestants, the 21-year-old Thai political student from Phuket stood out not just for her poise and elegance but also for her compelling narrative of strength, determination, and international empathy.

The annual Miss World 2025 event took place at the Hitex Exhibition Centre in Hyderabad, India. After rounds of deliberation, the final results placed Ms. Hasset Dereje Admassu from Ethiopia as the first runner-up, followed by Ms. Maja Klajda of Poland as the second runner-up, and Ms. Aurelie Joachim representing Martinique as the third runner-up. Miss World Thailand, Opal Suchata Chuangsri emerged as the winner and was officially crowned by the 2024 winner, Ms Krystyna Pyszkova of the Czech Republic.

While she placed as the third runner-up in Miss Universe 2024, this year’s victory holds greater significance for her. As a matter of fact, her win marks a historic moment as the first time a contestant from Thailand has ever won in the competition’s 72-year history.

In an interview with The Hindu, Opal shared more about what it meant for her to win the crown for herself and her country.

“It is such a proud moment, not just for me, but for Thailand. To bring home the country’s very first Miss World title is incredibly emotional. I know everyone back home is celebrating, and I feel so grateful for the support I have received from my family, my team, and my nation. I cannot wait to return and share this crown with them in person.”

Beyond Opal’s recognition, the Miss World pageant, which started in 1951, stands as a testament to the celebration of beauty, talent, and purpose. Over its extensive history, Miss World has crowned numerous extraordinary women who have gone on to achieve significant accomplishments in various fields. From stars likes Priyanka Chopra to Aishwarya Rai, ahead, we spotlight the standout titleholders from Miss World over the years.

Aishwarya Rai (1994)

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Aishwarya Rai stole hearts with her beauty and grace when she took part in the Miss World competition back in 1994. Representing India at just 21 years old, she was actually an architecture student who took on modeling as a part-time job—and even turned down film offers to focus on her studies. But after winning Miss World, she slowly stepped into the world of film and has since become one of Bollywood’s most celebrated actresses. She’s living proof that she’s not just a pretty face—she’s incredibly talented too.

Priyanka Chopra (2000)

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Look familiar? Before she became a global star, actress, film producer, and Nick Jonas’ other half, Priyanka Chopra won the Miss World title in 2000—at just 18 years old. Her win catapulted her into the spotlight, opening doors to Bollywood and kickstarting a hugely successful acting career. She later made the jump to Hollywood and has since become a full-blown global icon.

Yu Wenxia (2012)

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Yu Wenxia was the second woman from China to win the Miss World crown, following Zhang Zilin’s win in 2007. She took home the title in 2012 at just 23, and is a true multi-hyphenate—an actress, TV host, classical singer, model, and pageant queen. Post-win, she’s appeared in a few films and TV projects, including a guest role in The Transporter Refuelled (2015), and has co-hosted several international pageant events.

Mireia Lalaguna (2015)

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Mireia Lalaguna made history as the first-ever Miss World winner from Spain when she took the crown in 2015. During her reign, some standout moments included starring in the TV show Poker Stars and teaming up with Cristiano Ronaldo for a charity match—where she won $20,000 and donated it to her Beauty with a Purpose project.