Miss USA Noelia Voigt makes ‘tough decision’ to step down

Miss USA, Noelia Voigt has announced she is relinquishing her crown to preserve her mental health.

The beauty pageant contestant, who was awarded the prestigious title on September 29, 2023 in Reno Tahoe, announced her decision to step down Monday, May 6,2024 on Instagram.

“My journey as Miss USA has been incredibly meaningful, representing Utah with pride, and later the USA at Miss Universe (held in November),” Voigt said in the lengthy statement posted to her account.

“Sadly, I have made the very tough decision to resign from the title of Miss USA 2023″.

“Never could I have imagined the journey that my childhood dream would take me on,” Voigt, 24, continued.

“Constant and consistent hard work and dedication all lead me to where I am today, and I hope that the last seven years of competing in pageantry and sharing my journey with you all is something that inspires you to never give up on your dreams, whatever they may be.

“Eternal gratitude fills my heart when I think about the platform I was given to make a difference, the feeling of achieving a lifelong dream, and connecting with people all over the world, just as I said I would do on the Miss USA stage,” she added.

“Deep down I know that this is just the beginning of a new chapter for me, and my hope is that I continue to inspire others to remain steadfast, prioritise your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using your voice, and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it feels uncertain.”