Oxana Fedorova inarguably ranks high as one of the most beautiful faces – if not the most beautiful – to be ever crowned Miss Universe. And as the first Russian winner of the title, it must have really been a big honor to her countrymen. But it was a fairy tale that did not have a happy ending. Barely four months after her victory, she had to be terminated for not being able to fulfill her duties. Her first runner-up – Justine Pasek of Panama – took over.

Let’s watch the 2002 Finals to reminisce her dominance during this edition.

According to MUO President Paula Shugart in this news article by CBS News:

“She needed to spend a lot of time in Russia,” Shugart said in a broadcast interview. “I believe her mother was ill at one point.”

When asked about reports that Fedorova was fired because she was married or pregnant, Shugart said, “No, I honestly have no idea where any of that came from.” Miss Universe cannot be married or have children, according to pageant rules.

Fedorova, a police lieutenant pursuing a graduate law degree at St. Petersburg’s Police Academy, denied she had been fired and said she gave up the title herself.

“The duties of a world beauty are wonderful. However, my prime goal is my studies and career in Russia,” Fedorova told RTR state television. “I know I will remain Miss Universe for Russian citizens and for myself.”

She, too, denied she was married or pregnant.

As far as the other highlights of her professional life are concerned, Oxana is the founder of her own fashion line, Oksana Fedorova Design Studio, which debuted its fall collection during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Russia last 2016. She also pursued a film, music and television career that included being a voice actress in animated US movies – such as Toy Story 3 and Tinker Bell – that were dubbed for the Russian audience.