Miss South Africa 2024, Mia le Roux, has officially withdrawn from the Miss Universe competition, citing health concerns as the reason for her decision. The announcement, made by the Miss South Africa organization on Friday morning, has been met with an outpouring of support for the young trailblazer.
Le Roux, who made history as the first hard-of-hearing winner of the Miss South Africa title, departed for Mexico two weeks ago to represent the nation on the global stage. The Miss Universe finale is scheduled to take place on Sunday morning, South African time. However, her journey was unexpectedly cut short due to her health challenges.
Expressing her gratitude and heartbreak over the decision, Le Roux stated, “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.”
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The Miss South Africa organization lauded Le Roux’s courage and resilience in the face of adversity. “Mia has shown incredible grace throughout this difficult period. Her health and well-being are our utmost priority, and we stand by her side, committed to ensuring she regains her strength and returns to full health,” the organization said in a statement.
Le Roux’s historic win and her journey to Miss Universe inspired many, showcasing her determination to break barriers and advocate for inclusivity. Her withdrawal has left a bittersweet sentiment among her supporters, but her decision to prioritize her health has been widely respected.
As South Africa rallies behind her, the focus now shifts to her recovery. The Miss South Africa organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Le Roux, ensuring she continues to thrive and inspire.
Mia le Roux’s journey serves as a testament to her strength and commitment, both as a representative of her country and as an advocate for resilience and self-care. South Africa awaits her return with open arms, ready to celebrate her courage and dedication to her nation.