Mia Le Roux, recently crowned Miss South Africa 2024, has announced her withdrawal from the Miss Universe competition, citing health concerns.
In a statement released on Friday, Le Roux described the decision as “incredibly challenging” but necessary for her well-being. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to South Africans for their unwavering support during her pageant journey.
“This has been an exceptionally difficult decision to make, knowing the dreams and hopes placed upon me,” Le Roux said. “However, I am deeply grateful for 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 echoed its support for Le Roux, praising her resilience and emphasizing the importance of her health.
“Mia has demonstrated remarkable courage and grace throughout this challenging time. Her health and well-being are our top priorities, and we remain committed to supporting her recovery,” the organisation said.
Le Roux’s withdrawal follows a tumultuous year for the Miss South Africa pageant. Earlier, Chidimma Adetshina, a contestant of Nigerian and South African heritage, faced social media backlash over her nationality and withdrew from the competition. The controversy intensified when the South African Home Affairs Ministry launched an investigation into allegations of identity theft involving Adetshina’s mother.
Adetshina, born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent, later participated in and won the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 pageant.
Le Roux, a descendant of Dutch settlers known as Boers, was subsequently crowned Miss South Africa 2024. Her decision to step back from the Miss Universe stage underscores the importance of prioritizing health, even amidst the pressures of representing a nation on the global stage.
