Mia le Roux, the reigning Miss South Africa 2024, has made the difficult decision to withdraw from the ongoing Miss Universe competition, citing health concerns.

Her withdrawal comes just days before the grand finale of the global pageant, which is set to take place on Saturday, November 16, in Mexico.

In a heartfelt statement shared on Friday morning, Mia expressed her gratitude to South Africans for their support and understanding during her journey.

She described the decision as one of the toughest she’s ever had to make, considering the hopes and expectations placed on her.

“I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering support from South Africa during my time at Miss Universe,” she stated.

“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.”

Mia’s decision has drawn an outpouring of support from fans, the Miss South Africa organization, and the broader South African community.

Her journey to Miss Universe was seen as an opportunity to showcase her talent and represent her country on a global stage.

The Miss South Africa organization also released a statement expressing their full support for Mia’s choice, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing health above all else.

They commended her for her courage and assured her that the nation remains proud of her accomplishments.