Karen Carney dazzles on strictly come dancing 2025 — Football star wins hearts with Lioness spirit
Karen Carney
Former England football star Karen Carney is showing that her magic extends far beyond the pitch. The 38-year-old former Lioness, who made history as one of England’s most decorated female footballers, continues to impress on Strictly Come Dancing 2025, surviving yet another week of eliminations amid cheers from her teammates and fans.
Carney, who once dazzled spectators with her quick feet on the football field, is now earning praise for her rhythm and resilience on the dance floor. Competing alongside her professional partner Carlos Gu, she has become one of the standout celebrities of this year’s 23rd season of the BBC’s hit dance competition.
A Star on the Dance Floor — and Beyond
From Arsenal to Chelsea and the England national team, Carney’s football journey was marked by brilliance and hard work. Over 144 international appearances for the Lionesses, she earned a reputation for intelligence, technical skill, and leadership. Today, she channels that same energy into the glittering world of Strictly, showing audiences that her competitive drive is as fierce as ever.
Her recent quickstep routine scored 27 out of 40, keeping her in the competition for another week. But it was her emotional reaction backstage that caught attention. “It was pure relief,” she admitted during an interview on Strictly: It Takes Two. “I was so nervous. When our names were called, it just meant so much.”
Lionesses Unite in Support
Carney’s former teammates Beth Mead, Lucy Bronze, and Rachel Yankey made a surprise appearance to support her during the latest live show, cheering from the audience. On Instagram, Carney shared a heartfelt post with her old football family, writing:
“Just knowing my teammates were there was such a massive comfort to me. Their support meant everything.”
The touching moment highlighted the enduring bond between the Lionesses — proof that even in retirement, their sisterhood remains unbroken.
From the Pitch to the Paso Doble
Carney’s debut on Strictly was nothing short of historic. In the first live show, she shattered a long-standing myth about footballers being awkward dancers by topping the leaderboard with a score of 31 for her performance to Blondie’s One Way or Another.
Since then, she has continued to adapt, learning complex dances like the Rumba, which she calls “the toughest challenge yet.” “Doing the Rumba’s like lifting weights for six days straight,” she joked, adding that it’s pushed her physically in ways football never did.
From Football Glory to Television Stardom
After retiring from football in 2019, Carney quickly became one of the most respected voices in sports broadcasting. As ITV’s lead female football presenter and a columnist for The Guardian and BBC Sport, she continues to inspire the next generation of women in sports.
Her journey from a working-class Birmingham girl — whose mother worked at Sainsbury’s and father was a firefighter — to becoming an OBE honoree and national icon is a story of determination and humility.
“Whether I was on the field or on TV, I’ve always stayed grounded,” she once said. “I don’t need luxury to prove my worth — just purpose.”
A Legacy Beyond Football
Throughout her playing career, Carney earned 144 caps, scored 32 goals, and competed in four World Cups, four European Championships, and the London 2012 Olympics. She was inducted into both the Birmingham City and English Football Halls of Fame, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Now, as she conquers new stages and spotlights, Carney’s story proves that discipline, humility, and courage never fade — they simply find new forms of expression.
FAQs
Who is Karen Carney?
Karen Carney is a retired English footballer and sports broadcaster known for her 144 international appearances with the Lionesses and current participation in Strictly Come Dancing 2025.
What teams did Karen Carney play for?
She played for Arsenal, Chelsea, Birmingham City, and the Chicago Red Stars.
What dance earned Karen Carney her highest score on Strictly?
Her Week 1 quickstep performance to Blondie’s One Way or Another earned her a top score of 31.
Who supported Karen Carney on Strictly?
Former Lionesses Beth Mead, Lucy Bronze, and Rachel Yankey attended a live show to cheer her on.
What award has Karen Carney received?
She received an MBE in 2017 and an OBE in 2024 for her services to football.
