Ex-Footballer Karen Carney Makes History at Top of Strictly Leaderboard in Week One

Strictly Come Dancing has kicked off its latest season, and already the dance floor is buzzing with history-making performances. Former England footballer Karen Carney stunned audiences in week one, topping the leaderboard with a dazzling routine that earned her a standing ovation and a place in the Strictly record books.

From Football Pitch to Ballroom Floor

Karen Carney, at 38, is certainly no stranger to high-pressure environments. Throughout her illustrious football career, she amassed an incredible 140 caps for England, proudly representing her country at numerous World Cups and European Championships. These achievements solidified her status as one of the most respected and influential figures in women’s football. Yet, the moment she stepped onto the glittering Strictly Come Dancing stage, the emotional stakes felt profoundly different, a challenge unlike any she had faced before.

"I’ve played in front of 70,000 roaring fans in massive stadiums, but I’ve honestly never been this nervous in my entire life," she openly confessed just moments before her highly anticipated debut performance. The transition from the familiar green pitch to the unfamiliar polished dance floor presented a unique kind of vulnerability.

Despite her candid admission of nerves, they were utterly invisible once the music started. Expertly paired with the charismatic professional dancer Giovanni Pernice, Carney launched into a fiery cha-cha. Their performance was a dynamic showcase, blending her inherent athletic precision honed over years of elite sport with a surprising and captivating flair for dance, instantly winning over judges and the audience alike.

Judges Left Stunned

Head judge Shirley Ballas called the routine “a revelation,” praising Carney’s footwork and musicality. Craig Revel Horwood, usually the harshest critic, shocked viewers by handing her one of the night’s highest scores.

“Darling, I was expecting stiff football legs, but you gave us hips!” Craig quipped, to laughter from the audience.

Breaking Barriers

Carney’s performance is historic not only because of the scores but also because she is the first female ex-footballer to appear on Strictly. Her debut comes at a time when women’s football is enjoying unprecedented popularity in the UK, following England’s triumph at Euro 2022 and strong showings at the Women’s World Cup.

“Women’s sport is finally getting its spotlight,” Carney told reporters backstage. “If I can bring some of that energy into the ballroom, then I’m proud.”

The Road Ahead

Of course, Strictly is a marathon, not a sprint. Many early frontrunners have stumbled in later weeks. But for now, Carney’s mix of discipline, determination, and joy has set the stage for what could be one of the most inspiring journeys of the season.