Miss Universe South Africa Withdraws Days Before Finals Due to Health Concerns
Withdrawal marks unexpected turn in historic representation that saw first deaf winner step down
Miss South Africa’s Mia Le Roux has withdrawn from the Miss Universe 2024 pageant just days before the grand finale, citing health concerns. The announcement came through the Miss Universe South Africa social media pages on the night of the preliminary competition, where fans had been eagerly awaiting her appearance on stage.
“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,” the official statement read.
Le Roux shared her own statement: “I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering support from SA during my time at Miss Universe. Making this decision has been incredibly challenging, knowing the dreams and hopes that have been placed on me.
“However, I’m deeply grateful to have the opportunity to focus on my health and recovery so I may continue to serve my country with full strength.”
The withdrawal means South Africa will have no representative at this year’s event, which culminates in its grand finale on Sunday.
Le Roux’s journey to Miss Universe had been historic – she became the first deaf woman to be crowned Miss South Africa after a controversial competition that saw finalist Chidimma Adetshina withdraw following trolling over her Nigerian heritage. Adetshina, a 23-year-old law student, later went on to win Miss Universe Nigeria and is currently representing Nigeria at Miss Universe 2024.
Le Roux, 28, who was diagnosed with severe hearing loss at age one, had made history with her Miss South Africa win. After receiving a cochlear implant and undergoing two years of speech therapy to speak her first words, she used her platform to advocate for inclusivity. In her acceptance speech, she had expressed hope that her victory would inspire others who feel excluded from society to achieve their wildest dreams.
“I am a proudly South African deaf woman and I know what it feels like to be excluded,” she had stated after her win. “I know now that I was put on this planet to break boundaries and I did it tonight.”
