The unexpected withdrawal of Miss South Africa, Mia le Roux, from the ongoing Miss Universe pageant in Mexico has ignited a fresh wave of online debate between Nigerian and South African netizens. Le Roux, who had been in Mexico preparing for the finals, cited health concerns as the reason for her departure.
The 28-year-old, crowned Miss South Africa in August, had previously been at the center of a nationality controversy involving Nigerian-born Chidimma Adetshina. Adetshina, originally a finalist in the Miss South Africa pageant, withdrew amid debates over her eligibility and is now representing Nigeria at the Miss Universe finals.
Le Roux did not initially disclose specific details about her health condition. However, the Miss South Africa organization later clarified that Le Roux, who is hearing-impaired, had been experiencing severe vertigo over the past two weeks. They explained that her deafness affects her balance, and the vertigo posed a significant health risk, leading to the difficult decision to withdraw her from the competition.
In the wake of her withdrawal, some South Africans have speculated about external influences, with a few suggesting that Nigerians may have played a role in Le Roux’s situation. This speculation has fueled online discussions, highlighting the complex dynamics between the two nations, especially in the context of international competitions.
The Miss Universe pageant continues, with Chidimma Adetshina representing Nigeria. The developments surrounding Le Roux’s withdrawal have added an unexpected layer of intrigue to this year’s competition.
“Chidimma, … and the whole Nigeria Community to Our Miss Universe South Africa Mia Le Roux…. The fact remains they won’t overpower us, they’ll be stuck with this witchcraft… Prayers to our Mia Le Roux,” said AMO @Only-Botake in a salvo against Nigerians.
Attached to the text were voodoo pictures.
S.A.L.A.K.O @UnkleAyo,obviously a Nigerian said: “Spending weeks writing letters petitioning for Chidinma to be dropped off, Miss Universe competition. Only for your own candidate to fall ill and withdraw on her own volition. The universe delivering poetic justice with a giant middle finger, to South Africans.”
A South African ,Kgothatso Mabunda@Kgothatsomc,said: “Guess what… Nigeria gained. Why drag South Africa.”
Another Nigerian,Sir-Bobby@iam_Fliq said: “Miss South Africa withdrawing from the Miss Universe competition a day before the finale isn’t what anyone wants to hear right now!!! We cooking South Africans today!!! Cookn’t we ???”
Le Roux in her withdrawal statement said: “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.”
