October 25, 2025 — Las Vegas, Nevada
The Miss USA 2025 pageant ended in controversy after last year’s winner, Alma Cooper, refused to appear on stage to crown her successor — breaking one of the pageant’s oldest traditions and leaving fans stunned.
23-year-old Audrey Eckert of Nebraska was crowned Miss USA 2025, winning over both the judges and the audience. But moments before the live broadcast, organizers confirmed that Cooper, Miss USA 2024, had pulled out of the event entirely. Her unexpected withdrawal forced a last-minute reshuffle and sent social media into a frenzy of speculation.
Traditionally, the reigning Miss USA personally places the crown on the new winner — a symbolic handover watched by millions. But this year’s ceremony was missing that defining moment.
Hours later, Cooper broke her silence in a lengthy Instagram post explaining her absence.
“After much reflection, I’ve made the incredibly difficult decision not to participate in this year’s Miss USA competition or ceremony,” she wrote. “I close this chapter with dignity and integrity — my head held high, just like the crown I had the honor to wear.”
Cooper, who has been praised for her accomplishments beyond pageantry, highlighted her lifelong pursuit of excellence: “In every step of my journey, I strive for excellence. That drive led me to graduate among the top 50 students at West Point, complete three marathons in ten months, and become a Knight-Hennessy Fellow at Stanford University.”
Her decision has split fans — some applauding her integrity and independence, others criticizing what they see as a disrespectful move toward the pageant organization.
Despite the uproar, Audrey Eckert delivered a graceful and emotional performance, securing the Miss USA 2025 crown. A business administration graduate and marketing specialist, Eckert will now represent the United States at Miss Universe later this year.
With nine Miss Universe titles to date, the U.S. remains one of the world’s most successful nations in pageantry. But this year’s competition will be remembered not only for its new queen — but for the reigning one who refused to pass on the crown.