South Africa’s Mia le Roux has pulled out of the Miss Universe finals in Mexico, citing health concerns, the organizers have announced.
Due to her last-minute withdrawal, South Africa will not be represented at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant.
In a statement, Miss South Africa Organization said le Roux’s health and well-being are “top priority”, and it would support her until she was “back to full health.”
Emphasizing Le Roux’s resilience and prioritizing her health, the organization stated, “Mia has shown incredible courage and grace throughout this difficult period.
“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 became the first deaf woman to be crowned Miss South Africa after a controversy-hit contest that saw Chidimma Adetshina withdraw over harassment about her Nigerian heritage.
In a statement released on Friday, Le Roux expressed gratitude for the support she has received from South Africans, describing the decision to step back as “incredibly challenging” but necessary to focus on her health.
She 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.”
