Mia Le Roux, who was recently crowned Miss South Africa 2024, has announced her withdrawal from the upcoming Miss Universe competition due to health issues.
The decision comes just ahead of the pageant, where she was set to represent South Africa at the 73rd Miss Universe contest in Mexico this weekend.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Miss South Africa Organisation, Le Roux expressed her gratitude for the support she has received from South Africans but explained that stepping back from the competition was necessary to focus on her health.
She described the decision as “incredibly challenging” but emphasized the importance of prioritizing her well-being.
“I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering support from South Africa during my time at Miss Universe. Making this decision has been incredibly challenging, knowing the dreams and hopes that have been placed upon me. However, I am deeply grateful to have the opportunity to focus on my health and recovery so that I may continue to serve my country with full strength,” Le Roux said.
The Miss South Africa Organisation also expressed its full support for Le Roux, praising her for her resilience and acknowledging the difficult nature of her decision.
“Mia has shown incredible courage and grace throughout this difficult period,” the organization stated. “Her health and well-being are our utmost priority, and we stand by her side, dedicated to ensuring she regains her strength and returns to full health.”
Le Roux’s withdrawal comes after a year filled with controversy within the Miss South Africa pageant.
Notably, Chidinma Adetshina, a contestant of Nigerian and South African heritage, withdrew after facing backlash over her nationality.
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The situation further escalated when the South African Home Affairs Ministry launched an investigation into allegations of identity theft by Adetshina’s mother.
The controversy surrounding Adetshina’s participation ultimately led to her invitation to the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 pageant, which she later won.
Le Roux’s departure means South Africa will not be represented at the Miss Universe finals, where 120 beauty queens were set to compete for the coveted title.
The 28-year-old made history earlier this year as the first-ever deaf woman to be crowned Miss South Africa.
She had previously expressed her excitement about representing South Africa on the global stage, calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to have her “voice heard” and showcase the country’s “beautiful diversity.”
Le Roux, who was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one, has a cochlear implant that helps her perceive sound. She has openly shared the challenges of her journey, including undergoing two years of speech therapy before being able to speak her first words.
In an earlier interview, she spoke passionately about overcoming her personal struggles and how she views her role as Miss South Africa as a platform to inspire others.
While the nature of Le Roux’s health issue remains undisclosed, the Miss South Africa Organisation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting her recovery. “Our hearts are with her as she takes the necessary steps toward recovery,” the organization concluded.
This development comes as a significant setback for Le Roux, who was among the 120 contestants vying for the Miss Universe title, but her health remains the top priority. The Miss South Africa Organisation, along with her supporters, will continue to stand by her during this challenging period.
