Reigning Miss Austria Lucia Sisic has died unexpectedly at the age of 22, sending shockwaves through the country’s pageant community.
Mission Austria, the organization behind the Miss and Mister Austria competitions, announced her death Monday in an emotional statement.
“It is with great shock and deep sadness that we have learned of the passing of our Miss Austria 2024, Lucia Sisic,” the organization said.
Sisic was still the reigning titleholder because no new Miss Austria competition had been held since she won the crown in 2024.
An official cause of death has not been released.
Sisic had, however, spoken openly about serious health problems she faced throughout her life. She was born with a heart valve defect and reportedly underwent seven surgeries because of the condition.
“Lucia will be remembered as a wonderful young woman,” Mission Austria said. “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to her family, friends, and all those close to her during this difficult time.”
The message was signed by Mission Austria CEO Kerstin Rigger and her husband, Jörg.
Christopher Dengg, who was crowned Mister Austria 2024 alongside Sisic, said he was devastated by the news.
“She was like a sister to me, especially during the time we held the title together,” he told local outlet Oe24. “We will all miss her very much.”
Sisic had previously expressed deep gratitude to the doctors who treated her heart condition.
In an August 2024 Instagram post, she thanked the pediatric cardiology specialists who had cared for her over the years.
“Thanks to the specialists and the dedicated doctors, who have always saved my life with great efforts, I have overcome many difficult moments and have been able to live a fulfilling life,” she wrote.
Sisic was crowned Miss Austria in 2024 and remained the reigning titleholder at the time of her death.
Her sudden passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from those who knew her and followed her pageant career.