Gone too soon: Reigning Miss Austria Lucia Sisic dies at 22
Lucia Sisic, the reigning Miss Austria, has died at the age of 22.
Mission Austria, the organization behind the Miss Austria pageant, confirmed Sisic’s death in an Instagram post on Tuesday, Sept. 8.
The organization described Sisic as a “wonderful young woman” and extended its condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones.
“Dear Lucia, you will always remain a part of our Miss Austria family. Rest in peace,” the organization wrote in German.
The cause of her death was not specified.
Christopher Dengg, who held the Mister Austria 2024 title, told Oe24 that he was “deeply shocked” by Sisic's passing. “She was like a sister to me, especially during the time we held the title together. We will all miss her very much,” Dengg said.
According to Austrian media outlet Oe24, Sisic was born with a heart valve defect and had undergone multiple heart surgeries throughout her life. Her condition required several operations, including one in the winter before her death.
Before her death, Sisic became open about her health struggles on Instagram. In a 2024 post, she thanked her pediatric cardiology specialists for helping her get through “many difficult moments.”
"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 said.
Sisic began her pageant journey as Miss Vienna before representing the city at the Miss Austria competition in 2024, where she took home the national title. She remained the reigning Miss Austria as no succeeding pageant was held.
