Reigning Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux won't be participating in the Miss Universe competition, which will be held at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico, tomorrow. Mia, who was crowned in August, became the first deaf person to compete at Miss SA and Miss Universe. Her exit was announced by Miss SA this morning.

Prayers up for our Mia ???#MissUniverse #MissUniverse2024 pic.twitter.com/eqHNvwZ2Uc

— Miss Universe South Africa (@missuniverseza) November 15, 2024

HEALTH CONCERNS

According to a statement released by the Miss SA organisation, Le Roux's decision was taken due to health concerns. The statement read: "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 organisation said that Le Roux, because of her condition in the past two weeks, has been suffering from severe vertigo. "As we are all aware, deafness affects balance and the decision to withdraw was not an easy one. And though our queen got the best support from MUO, vertigo posed a severe health risk for her further participation," they said in a post on X.

DEVASTATING

The organisation asked that Le Roux be shown grace and kindness through this period. "Preparing for this month for months and not being able to fully live it is devastating for any contestant," the organisation wrote. Le Roux also thanked her followers for continuing to support her. "I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering support from South Africa during my time at Miss Universe." She said the decision was hard; however, her health is her primary concern at the moment. "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," she added. The Miss South Africa Organisation said they are proud of the courage and strength she demonstrated throughout her journey. "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 recovery." It remains unclear whether the organisation will send its first princess Onalenna Constantin to represent Mzansi at the Miss Universe pageant.