Nadiya Bychkova continues to captivate audiences across the UK and beyond. Known for her elegance, precision, and charm, she has become a household name thanks to her success on the iconic Strictly Come Dancing. As the programme prepares to return for another glittering season, Nadiya’s star continues to rise. Her journey, achievements, and recent headlines keep her firmly in the spotlight.
Early Life and Dance Foundations
Born in Luhansk, Ukraine, in August 1989, Nadiya Bychkova began dancing at just four years old. Her natural talent and unwavering commitment quickly became evident. Training extensively in both ballroom and Latin dance, she went on to achieve a string of impressive titles, including two World Championships and two European Championships in the demanding ‘10 Dance’ discipline. Bychkova also clinched multiple Slovenian ballroom and Latin titles, reflecting her international pedigree and relentless work ethic.
Journey to the UK and Strictly Fame
Nadiya’s recognition in the UK soared in 2017, the year she joined Strictly Come Dancing as a professional dancer. Her arrival brought a refreshing dynamism to the show’s rich history, which already boasted a pantheon of world-class dancers. In her debut season, she was paired with EastEnders actor Davood Ghadami, and the duo’s chemistry earned them a place in the quarter-finals. Each year, Strictly’s casting draws headlines across the UK, and Nadiya’s repeated selection as a professional is a testament to both her popularity and her technical skill.
Over the years, millions have watched Nadiya’s performances with partners such as Lee Ryan, David James, Dan Walker, Matt Goss, and, more recently, Olympic gold medallist Tom Dean. While she has yet to lift the coveted Glitterball Trophy, her journey is marked by resilience, artistry, and an enviable portfolio of memorable routines.
Stepping into the Limelight: Recent News
Nadiya’s name often trends in Google’s UK search results, not only due to her stellar dancing, but also because of her charismatic presence both on and off the dance floor. In 2024, Strictly fans witnessed her return to the main show after a season without a celebrity partner. She was partnered with swimmer Tom Dean, but the pair’s journey ended earlier than fans had hoped, becoming the first couple eliminated in that season. This did little to diminish her fan base. Rather, it sparked public discussions about her future in the show and fuelled even greater curiosity.
Recently, Nadiya confirmed her appearance in the upcoming 2025 Strictly season, a move widely celebrated by her supporters. She shared her excitement about the new season during appearances on national television, describing her eagerness to return and her ongoing dedication to dance.
Personal Life in the Public Eye
Media coverage of Nadiya’s personal life often rivals that of her dancing. Formerly engaged to Slovenian footballer Matija Škarabot, with whom she shares a daughter, Nadiya became romantically linked with fellow Strictly professional Kai Widdrington. The couple’s relationship drew significant attention, given their high-profile roles and public appearances. Their recent split made headlines, with Nadiya openly discussing her positive outlook and contentment with single life, expressing her focus on her daughter and career.
Despite the scrutiny, Nadiya has handled her personal affairs with grace and composure, reinforcing her reputation for professionalism. She encourages open conversations with fans and rarely shies away from addressing speculative headlines, but always brings the narrative back to her passion for dance and performance.
A Flourishing Career Outside the Ballroom
Beyond Strictly, Nadiya maintains a flourishing career. She has enjoyed successful modelling assignments, including campaigns for Michael Kors, Freemans, and Dune. These ventures further showcase her versatility and adaptability. The British press has praised her effortless glamour and high-fashion sensibility, particularly when she appears at prestigious events such as the TRIC Awards, where her signature ‘ballroom look’ attracts as much attention as the celebrity guestlist itself.
Most recently, Nadiya returned to UK theatres with her exclusive tour, “A Special Evening with Nadiya Bychkova.” This intimate show allows audiences an inside look into her journey, incorporating candid stories and behind-the-scenes tales from her Strictly experience. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans and critics alike lauding her magnetic stage presence and warm interaction with attendees.
Her impact goes further through ambassadorial roles. Notably, she has taken on duties with the Royal Ballet School’s Primary Steps Programme, championing access to dance for children in communities with limited opportunities for performance art. This commitment reflects her recognition of the wider value of artistic expression in society and her desire to give back to the next generation of dancers.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025: What Lies Ahead?
As of July 2025, anticipation for the new season of Strictly is building rapidly across the country, and Nadiya is confirmed as one of the professional dancers returning to the series. Alongside other renowned professionals, she will once again vie for a place in the spotlight, partnering with a new celebrity and aiming to charm the judging panel and home audience.
Official statements from the BBC underscore the show’s ongoing commitment to diversity, excellence, and entertainment. Nadiya’s continued participation reinforces Strictly’s appeal, promising fans more dazzling routines, backstage stories, and unforgettable group performances. With the return to the historic Tower Ballroom in Blackpool again scheduled, the nation can look forward to more nights where Nadiya Bychkova shines under the glitterball lights.
Achievements and Accolades
Nadiya’s achievements continue to be recognised at the highest level. She holds two Guinness World Records from Strictly’s Pro Challenge: one for the most flecks in 30 seconds (2020) and another for the most pat-a-cake steps in 30 seconds (2021). Such accolades stand as a testament to her technical virtuosity and commitment to maintaining elite standards in live performance.
Conclusion:
Nadiya Bychkova’s journey from international dance champion to Strictly Come Dancing favourite has made her a beloved figure across the UK. With her talent, resilience, and passion, she continues to inspire audiences both on and off the dance floor. As the new Strictly season approaches, all eyes are on Nadiya—poised, polished, and ready to dazzle once again.
Read More: John Torode: MasterChef, Allegations, & His Future