Robert Irwin breaks silence on Dancing With The Stars win, working with Witney and Xochitl Gomez dating rumours
He’s finally done it!
Robert Irwin has taken the mirror ball trophy and won Season 34 of Dancing With The Stars with partner professional dancer Witney Carson.
In an emotional post on Instagram the 21-year-old wildlife warrior reflected on what it means to him, and achieve that he set his sights on a decade ago.
“Where do I begin. I’ll never be able to describe what last night and these last three months have meant to me, but I can say THANK YOU,” he started.
“Thank you for letting me live out my dream. First and foremost to the person who was by my side through every twist and turn… the person who believed in me, pushed me (and made sure I always had snacks in rehearsals) – Witney… thank you.”
Robert said the experience was everything he dreamed of and more, thanking Witney for being the one to help him.
“10 years ago my sister won the mirrorball, and 11 years ago Witney won – this feels like the most special, full circle moment,” he continued.
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“That brings me to my family, they moved all the way out from Australia for three months to support me and be there for me every step of the way. Bindi, you inspired me to embark on this adventure, and I have you to thank for setting me on the course to take this remarkable journey.”
Robert thanked the other contestants and the pros who have become friends this season, along with the crew and of course, his fans.
“The love I felt from everyone around America and the world was everything to me, it kept us going week after week,” he wrote.
“Thank you for letting us tell stories through our dances and allowing us to bring you on this journey, I hope it could help you find inspiration and a sense of positivity and passion. It certainly was a healing experience for me.
“Every week I represented my home at Australia Zoo, our charity – Wildlife Warriors, and a legacy that is so important to me.
“I lift this mirrorball trophy with a sense of gratitude that my message and everything I stand for was recognised in that ballroom. The lessons I learned and friendships that I have formed will be part of me forever.”
The feelings between the Aussie conservationist and his professional dance partner are mutual, with Witney leaving an emotional comment on the post.
“You were a zoo keeper with no dance experience, who did the DANG THING!” she started.
“You embody what Dancing With The Stars is ALL ABOUT. The passion, the courage, the strength to try something out of your comfort zone in front of millions.
Robert Irwin’s action-packed life in pictures
“You showed up, trusted me, gave everything you had, and said yes to every challenge with enthusiasm.
“You worked to become a dancer and you did that, Robert. I hope you know how much you deserve this moment and all the praise that comes with it. I’m beyond proud my buddy. Love you always.”
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Robert has been praised by millions, ranging from his competitors on the show to people around the world, and even Xochitl Gomez, who he has been rumoured to be dating.
The pair met earlier this season on the show, where she returned for the 20th Birthday Party episode.
At the time, each competitor danced with a former champion in a head-to-head challenge against another duo.
Robert and Xochitl have since shared a moment backstage when she delivered flowers to his trailer pre-show, and she gushed about his win on social media after the show, adding fuel to romance rumours.
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