By JOSHUA OLOMU

Mia Le Roux, Miss South Africa, who is representing her country at the 2024 Miss Universe pageant, has pulled out of the competition over health concerns barely 48 hours to the grand finale.

The News of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Miss South Africa organisation announced her exit from the competition in a statement shared on its X page(formerly Twitter) on Friday.

The grand finale of the global beauty pageant competition is scheduled to hold on November 17 at the Arena CDMX in Mexico.

?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.

?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 returns to full health.

?Our hearts are with her as she takes the necessary steps toward recovery,? the organisation said.

The statement quoted the beau Mia Le Roux as saying,? 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.?

NAN reports that Mia Le Roux was recently crowned Miss South Africa in a pageant marred with controversies, resulting to the withdrawal of Nigerian-born finalist, Chidimma Adetshina.

Adetshina, born and raised in South Africa, faced online harassment and bullying over her Nigerian roots, highlighting deeper issues of inclusivity and acceptance.

Social media attacks targeted her Nigerian heritage despite her being born in South Africa and meeting all competition requirements.

She eventually announced her withdrawal from the competition citing safety and the well-being of herself and that of her family members.

Adetshina, who is representing Nigeria at the ongoing Miss Universe, was invited back home to participate in the Miss Universe Nigeria, a prelude to the global event, and she emerged winner. (NAN)

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