Nadiya Bychkova is the second Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer confirmed to exit ahead of the upcoming series on BBC One.
Bychkova had been one of the names rumoured to have been axed from the entertainment programme, though the BBC nor the dancer substantiated the claims.
In a statement posted on social media, Strictly Come Dancing said: "We would like to say a huge thank you to Nadiya Bychkova for her incredible contribution to Strictly Come Dancing.
"Since joining the show nine years ago, Nadiya has brought elegance, artistry, and unwavering dedication to the ballroom, and she will always remain a cherished member of the Strictly family.
"Over the years, Nadiya has delivered countless memorable performances, showcasing not only her exceptional talents as a dancer and choreographer but also her brilliance as a teacher to all her celebrity partners.
"A consummate professional, Nadiya embodies the very best of what Strictly stands for. We are deeply grateful for everything she has given to the show and wish her every success for the future."
The Ukranian dancer shared her own statement online also, thanking fans who have sent her "beautiful messages" over the past few weeks, but also to those who have voted and supported her across every series.
She wrote: "I also want to take a moment to appreciate all those who have helped me along the way: my partners, my fellow professionals, the judges and brilliant people behind the scenes.
"I joined the show as an athlete and a double world champion. Along the way I have learned so much about myself and other people. I have grown, not only professionally, but personally and creatively.
"Strictly has allowed me to discover new sides of myself, develop new skills, and evolve as an artist in ways I will always be grateful for."
Though, this isn't the end of Bychkova's Strictly journey, with the dancer hinting she may remain within the Elstree walls as she wrote: "This isn’t the end… I look forward to being part of the Strictly world for many years to come in ways I am beginning to explore."
She concluded the post, writing: "I’ve changed a lot since I first stepped onto that dance floor, not just as a performer, but as a person and I can honestly say I’ve never felt more like myself.
"I’m excited to have time to focus on new projects, and to spend more precious time with my beautiful daughter. Life feels full of possibilities. I danced before Strictly, I loved dancing on the show and I plan to keep dancing for many years to come."
View oEmbed on the source websiteJust last week Karen Hauer - the longest serving female pro - announced her exit, confirming she'd be closing the chapter on Strictly and would be taking the time to focus on new projects.
She said in a video: "Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher, but as a human being. I've had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people and brilliant celebrity partners who have become close friends and people I admire so much.
"None of this would have been possible without the amazing fans. You've been there since day one when I just moved to the UK and had no idea what I was getting myself into. I'm so grateful you watched me grow over the years and witnessed all of my different hairstyles."
The BBC is yet to confirm if more dancers will be leaving the Strictly family, but Radio Times understands that plans for the 2026 series will be announced in due course.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year.
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