See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred SourceBy SABRINA PENTY, FOREIGN NEWS REPORTER Published: 09:37 BST, 8 September 2026 | Updated: 14:20 BST, 8 September 2026
The Miss Austria titleholder has died unexpectedly aged 22.Lucia Sisic's death was confirmed by family and friends, who took to social media to pay tribute to the beauty queen. Sisic, from Vienna, had lived with a heart condition since birth and had undergone seven heart surgeries, according to local reports, but her exact cause of death is unknown. The pageant girl had been open about how her condition had affected her throughout her life, saying in a 2024 interview that her 'childhood was simply different, but it also made me strong.'She was crowned Miss Austria in 2024 and remained the country's titleholder at the time of her death. After winning the beauty contest, Sisic thanked the cardiology team that had treated her throughout her life. In an Instagram post, she wrote: 'Thanks to the specialists and dedicated doctors who—through their tremendous efforts—have repeatedly saved my life, I have overcome many difficult moments and been able to lead a fulfilling life.'I realise that I have mastered only a fraction of what still lies ahead of me. Nevertheless, I am proud not to have given up, even though there were many reasons to do so. It is difficult to find the right words to express my gratitude, as a simple "thank you" falls far short of what is needed.'Lucia Sisic (pictured), who held the title of Miss Austria, has died aged 22Sisic's cause of death is unknown, but she had suffered from heart complications throughout her lifeTributes have poured in for the 22-year-old, who was described by a friend as a 'young woman whose smile, kindness, and warmth touched the hearts of those who knew her.' Sisic was crowned Miss Austria in 2024 Miss Austria pageant organisers have also paid tribute to the beauty queenTributes have poured in for the young woman on social media. One friend wrote in a Facebook post: 'Dear Lucia, you left us far too soon, but your memory will remain with us forever.'May God welcome you into his kingdom and grant your parents and family the strength to bear this immeasurable pain.' The post went on to describe her as a girl of 'extraordinary beauty', and a 'young woman whose smile, kindness, and warmth touched the hearts of those who knew her.'Miss Austria beauty pageant organisers also commented on Sisic's death, saying in a statement: 'Lucia will be remembered as a wonderful young woman. 'Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with her family, friends, and all those close to her during this difficult time. 'Dear Lucia, you will always remain a part of our Miss Austria family.'
