Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux announced her sudden withdrawal from the Miss Universe competition on Friday morning, a day before the final crowning ceremony, which is due to be held in Mexico City on Saturday night.

In a statement from Mexico, the Miss South Africa Organisation did not divulge much details about the withdrawal, only to say that Le Roux has been dealing with “health concerns.”

“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.”

Le Roux says the decision to drop out was not an easy one:

“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.”

The Miss South Africa Organisation credited Le Roux for her 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 returns to full health. Our hearts are with her as she takes the necessary steps toward recovery.”

Neither the Miss South Africa Organisation nor Mia will be available to answer any further questions, deepening the concern people have expressed at the sudden news.

Le Roux became the first hearing-impaired winner of the pageant on 10 August 2024.

ALSO READ: Deaf community lauds Miss SA Mia le Roux’s win

Her crowning was preceded by controversy after Miss SA contestant Chidimma Adetshina withdrew from the competition due to her citizenship status being under scrutiny.

The Home Affairs department had found prima facie evidence that fraud may have been committed by Adetshina’s mother when she came to South Africa the same year Adetshina was born.

Adetshina was subsequently invited by the organisers of the Miss Universe Nigeria to enter, and she won the crown. Adetshina is in Mexico vying for the crown of Miss Universe 2024.

ALSO READ: MissSA controversy leads Adetshina to Miss Universe Nigeria

Due to the late withdrawal of Le Roux, and possibly rules of the Miss Universe competition, the Miss SA 2024 runner-up Nompumelelo Maduna, will not be able to take her place in Mexico.