Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux Withdraws from Miss Universe Due to Health Concerns

Mia Le Roux, the reigning Miss South Africa 2024, has announced her decision to withdraw from the upcoming Miss Universe competition, citing health issues.

In a statement released on Friday by the Miss South Africa Organisation, Le Roux described the decision as difficult but necessary to prioritize her well-being. She expressed deep gratitude for the support she has received from South Africans throughout her journey.

“This has been an incredibly challenging decision to make, knowing the aspirations and hopes placed upon me,” Le Roux said. “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to focus on my health and recovery so I can continue serving my country with full strength.”

The Miss South Africa Organisation voiced its full support for Le Roux, commending her resilience and placing her health above all else.

“Mia has shown remarkable courage and grace during this tough time,” the organisation said in its statement. “Her health and well-being are our top priorities, and we remain committed to supporting her through her recovery.”

Le Roux’s withdrawal follows a turbulent year for the Miss South Africa pageant, marked by controversy involving another contestant, Chidimma Adetshina.

Adetshina, born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican heritage, withdrew from the Miss South Africa competition after facing backlash on social media over her nationality. The situation escalated when South Africa’s Home Affairs Ministry launched an investigation, uncovering allegations of identity theft against Adetshina’s mother.

Despite the controversy, Adetshina went on to compete in the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 pageant, where she emerged victorious.

Le Roux, who has Dutch settler ancestry, was subsequently crowned Miss South Africa 2024.