Miss South Africa, Rolene Strauss, has made the country proud after she was crowned Miss World in London on Sunday, President Jacob Zuma said.
“We are very proud that our very own has earned this prestigious title after months of hard work and dedication.”
“Ms Strauss has demonstrated the capability of South Africans to shine on the world stage,” Zuma said in a statement.
“We are confident that she will fly the South African flag even higher as she performs her new responsibilities. On behalf of all South Africans, we extend our hearty congratulations and wish her the very best in this new role.”
The University of Free State medical student beat out first princess Miss Hungary Edina Kulcsar and second princess Miss USA Elizabeth Safrit to bring the title home.
The last time a South African won the title was in 1974 when Anneline Kriel was crowned Miss World.
Lead SA said the 22-year-old made the nation proud.
“We are ending this year on a high note, as we bring the crown home after 40 years. Rolene is only the third South African to walk away as Miss World,” said Lead SA.
“We have extraordinary talent and leadership in South Africa. Rolene has shown that beauty can have a significant purpose.”
Strauss is a true ambassador of South Africa and Mpumalanga, Anthony Benadie MPL and Democratic Alliance Mpumalanga leader said.
“Yielding from Volksrust in the Pixley ka Isaka Seme municipality, we are proud of her achievement,” he said in a statement.
“Being crowned Miss World 2014, brings with it immense responsibility and we are confident that she will represent our country and province well.”
Celebrities also poured out their support for Strauss on social media website Twitter