Mia le Roux who was set to represent South Africa at the Miss Universe finals this weekend in Mexico has pulled out of the competition, organisers have announced, citing health concerns.
The 28-year-old made history as the first-ever deaf woman to be crowned Miss South Africa in August, following a controversy-hit competition which saw one finalist withdraw after being trolled over her Nigerian heritage.
She had spent weeks in Mexico preparing for the finale of the prestigious beauty contest.
The Miss South Africa organisation in a statement said Ms Le Roux’s health and well-being “are our utmost priority” and pledged to support her until she “returns to full health”.
The last-minute withdrawal means South Africa will not be represented at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, where Ms Le Roux was among 120 beauty queens vying for the coveted title.
“Making this decision has been incredibly challenging, knowing the dreams and hopes that have been placed upon me,” she said in the statement.
“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 has not disclosed the nature of the health problem.
The Miss South Africa organisation said Ms Le Roux had shown “incredible courage and grace throughout this difficult period”.
“Our hearts are with her as she takes the necessary steps toward recovery,” the organisation added.
Last month, Ms Le Roux expressed her excitement about the chance to represent South Africa on the Miss Universe stage terming it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for my voice to be heard”.
She said then that she hoped to showcase her country’s “beautiful diversity”.
She was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one and has a cochlear implant to help her perceive sound.
In an earlier interview, she said it had taken two years of speech therapy before she was able to say her first words. She spoke passionately about her journey, acknowledging the challenges she has faced.