The former England footballer won the 2025 series.

BBC star says Strictly winner’s heartbreaking struggle revealed (Image: BBC)

Karen Carney is the first football player to lift the Glitterball trophy alongside her dance partner Carlos Gu. The dancing duo went up against George Clarke and Alexis Warr and Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin on Saturday night as they battled it out on Strictly Come Dancing.

Former show professional Vincent Simone has since spoken out as he spotted a heartbreaking moment during the show final. The 46 year old competed on the BBC series for seven years, from 2006 to 2012.

Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk on behalf of Sky Vegas the dancer spotted a key detail “missing” from Karen’s performances after her hidden health struggles were revealed in the final. Karen and Carlos performed routines including a show dance to Inner Smile by Texas, and an Argentine Tango to Red Right Hand by Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds.

They also performed a football-themed jive to One Way Or Another by Blondie, earning them a standing ovation – and their second perfect score of the night.

Vincent Simone delivered his Strictly verdict (Image: Getty)

Vincent noted that Karen did not wear heels during any of her three performances.

“I honestly thought George was going to win because of his popularity, so I was pleasantly surprised that Karen did. She deserved it,” he explained.

“She put out some interesting routines this series, and although she’s dealing with a fused spine which affects posture and visuals, she still delivered brilliantly.”

Vincent added: “The only thing missing for me was one elegant, beautiful ‘Strictly’ dance in the final, and of course not wearing heels, but overall, she did a great final and clearly connected with viewers.”

Karen Carney and Carlos Gu performed three dance routines (Image: BBC)

Karen, 38, has been open about her hidden health battle that affected both her footballing life and her time on Strictly Come Dancing.

She was diagnosed with Scheuermann’s disease – which causes curvature at the top of her spine.

Following the win, Karen said: “I can’t believe it, it’s been the biggest privilege and honour,” before adding she was “lost for words”.

It was an emotional night in the ballroom, as Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly hosted the final for the last time – with Queen Camilla among those paying tribute to the long-running hosts.