Miss South Africa 2024, Mia le Roux, has withdrawn from the 73rd Miss Universe pageant due to health issues.
The announcement came while Le Roux was in Mexico, where she had been preparing for the finale set to take place on Saturday, November 16.
In a statement, the Miss South Africa organisation said, “It is with deep regret that we share the news that Mia Le Roux, Miss South Africa 2024, has had to withdraw from the Miss Universe competition due to health concerns.”
Le Roux, the first deaf contestant in Miss Universe history, was among 120 beauty queens competing for the title. She had participated in preliminary events, including the national costume show, before her withdrawal.
Expressing her gratitude and sorrow, the 28-year-old said, “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.”
The Miss South Africa organisation praised her resilience during this difficult period, saying, “Mia has shown incredible courage and grace throughout this challenging time. 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. Our hearts are with her as she takes the necessary steps toward recovery.”
Le Roux, diagnosed with severe hearing loss at the age of one, overcame significant challenges, including years of speech therapy and using a cochlear implant, to become a successful model and marketing manager. After being crowned Miss South Africa, she stated, “I am a proudly South African deaf woman, and I know what it feels like to be excluded. I now know I was put on this planet to break boundaries, and I did that tonight.”
Her victory inspired many, as she hoped her journey would encourage others who feel excluded from society to pursue their “wildest dreams.”
