Karen Carney's Historic Win on Strictly Come Dancing: A Triumph for Footballers Everywhere

Former England midfielder Karen Carney made history on Saturday night as she won Strictly Come Dancing and lifted the iconic glitter-ball trophy. The ex-Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder put an end to stereotypes surrounding footballers and their ability to perform on the dance floor with some fantastic performances throughout the season, which received widespread praise.On Saturday, Carney became the 23rd winner of the Strictly Come Dancing competition as she and her dancing partner Carlos Gu lifted the trophy. Other than winning the entire contest, the 38-year-old also won the best VT award and the best dance award for her performance in her Peaky Blinders-themed Argentine tango.In the first live show of the 2025 edition of the popular dancing programme, Carney banished an 18-year curse when she finished top of the Strictly leaderboard. The former midfielder put an end to stereotypes surrounding footballers and their ability to perform on the dancefloor with a fantastic performance, which received widespread praise. The 38-year-old performed with her professional dancing partner, Carlos Gu. Carney was not the only former footballer who performed in the season, with ex-Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, who was eliminated in round four. The 38-year-old came into this final in exceptional form, having scored six 10s in the semi-final and topping the leaderboard. She duly danced to victory, dropping just three points across with three firecracker routines. Even in her moment of glory, the ex-footballer took care to thank everyone. Sometimes it’s an anti-climax when the bookies’ favourite wins.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingWhile Carney became the first footballer to win Strictly, several footballers have tried and failed to reach the top of the leaderboard over the years, including her former Lionesses teammate Alex Scott. Other footballers who have appeared in the Strictly ballroom include ex-goalkeepers Peter Schmeichel, Peter Shilton and David James, as well as John Barnes, Robbie Savage and Tony Adams. This year, Hasselbaink competed and was ousted early.

Breaking Stereotypes and Making History

Former England midfielder Karen Carney made history on Saturday night as she emerged victorious on Strictly Come Dancing. The ex-Arsenal and Chelsea star showcased exceptional talent and grace on the dance floor, challenging preconceptions about footballers and their dancing skills.

A Night to Remember

Carney's journey culminated in glory as she became the 23rd winner of Strictly Come Dancing, lifting the glitter-ball trophy alongside her talented partner Carlos Gu. Her performances, including a standout Peaky Blinders-themed Argentine tango, earned her widespread acclaim and accolades.

Legendary Performances and Unwavering Support

From banishing an 18-year curse by topping the leaderboard in the first live show to scoring perfect 10s in the semi-final, Carney demonstrated sheer brilliance and determination throughout the competition. Her flawless routines and unwavering support from fans propelled her to a well-deserved victory.

Honoring the Journey and Inspiring Others

As the first footballer to claim the crown on Strictly Come Dancing, Karen Carney's triumph serves as an inspiration to athletes from all disciplines. While celebrating her historic win, Carney humbly acknowledged the efforts of everyone who supported her and paved the way for future footballers on the dance floor.

A Legacy of Footballers on the Dance Floor

While Carney made history with her win, she joins a list of esteemed footballers who have graced the Strictly ballroom, including Alex Scott, Peter Schmeichel, and John Barnes. The competition has seen athletes from the football world showcase their diverse talents and captivate audiences with their performances.