Strictly Come Dancing star issues statement as he apologises to partner

Strictly Come Dancing's Chris Robshaw has issued an apology to his professional dance partner Nadiya Bychkova after he became the latest celebrity to leave the competition. The former rugby star's journey on the BBC programme came to and end on Sunday night after losing the dance-off against EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal and her dance partner Julian Caillon. During Saturday night's programme, Chris and Nadiya performed their Salsa to Ricky Martin's Maria.

The pair achieved 24 points on the evening, however they failed to do enough to impress the panel as Motsi Mabuse chose to save Balvinder, and whilst head judge Shirley Ballas and fellow judge Anton Du Beke voted to save Chris, Craig Revel Horwood held this week's deciding vote, and he opted to save Balvinder. Reflecting on his journey on the programme, Chris turned to social media and posted a heartfelt message, where he paid a touching tribute to Nadiya, reports The Mirror.

He began by saying: "I want to say a massive thank you to my partner @nadiyabychkova when we first started the show I had no confidence on the dance floor, sleepless nights before shows and massive doubts in my ability.

"You made the whole experience fun, challenging and rewarding. For last nights show I couldn't wait to be on the dance floor and show everyone what we had been working on.

"We opened the 2025 series with a Samba and a set of 3s, to last night risking it all with daring lifts, a pair of 7s and loving the salsa."

Chris continued: "Am sorry we couldn't go further but am thrilled we jumped in every session and went all in every show, finishing with our highest score and some moves which hadn't been seen together on the strictly floor."

The star added: "Thank you for all the support through out the series I've loved it. We all need to step out our comfort zone at times, I've grown to love it; give it a go, you've got this."

Nadiya was amongst the first to share a message in the comment section as she wrote: "Partner your dedication, resilience, and quiet strength have inspired me every single day. Watching you grow in confidence, enjoying dancing and making your family proud has reminded me why I love what I do so much."

Julian Caillon said: "You're incredible mate! Was such a pleasure to share the stage with you!" Johannes Radebe commented: "I'm proud of the both of you."

Fellow contestant Vicky Pattison said: "I'm proud of the both of you." Meanwhile one fan added: "Strictly won't be the same without you Chris. You were amazing."

The remaining 12 couples will take to the dance floor for Icons Week when Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturday, October 25, at 6.20pm, with the results show on Sunday October 26, at 7.15pm.