Mia le Roux: South African beauty queen pulls out of Miss Universe pageant

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.