Miss South Africa 2024 Mia le Roux has withdrawn from the Miss Universe competition due to health concerns.
The Miss South Africa organisation confirmed this on Friday morning.
Le Roux left the country two weeks ago to participate in the global contest in Mexico. The pageant finale is on Sunday morning, SA time.
The organisation said the hearing-impaired Le Roux had been struggling over the past fortnight and the decision to withdraw was not an easy one.
“Mia, because of her condition, has been suffering from severe vertigo. As we are all aware deafness affects balance. The vertigo posed a severe health risk for her further participation.”
Ear problems can cause a loss of balance and vertigo is described as a sensation of the world spinning around you.
Le Roux said: “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 on me. However, I am 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 Miss South Africa organisation said Le Roux has shown “incredible courage and grace throughout this difficult period”.
“Preparing for this moment for months and not being able to fully live it, is devastating for any contestant,” the organisation said, asking for her to be shown kindness.
“Her health and wellbeing are our utmost priority, and we stand by her side, dedicated to ensuring she regains her strength and returns to full health. Our hearts are with her as she takes the necessary steps towards recovery.”
TimesLIVE
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