Adam Peaty has told those who criticised him and Katya Jones during their stint on 'Strictly Come Dancing' to "challenge yourself to be better".
Adam Peaty
The 26-year-old Olympic swimmer - who is in a relationship - and his pro dance partner received a backlash after they performed a steamy Argentine Tango on the BBC show last month, culminating in an almost-smooch.
And after their exit from the Latin and ballroom contest on Sunday night (07.11.21), Adam has reflected on the ups and downs of competing on the programme.
He began by explaining how he doesn't believe it was the dancing that "pushed him over the edge" with his emotions during the dance-off with Tilly Ramsay and Nikita Kuzmin, but "two years of the constant challenge with myself combined with the energy to win the Olympics and becoming a father at the same time."
He started off the candid Instagram post: "What an experience @bbcstrictly has been.
"I’m so grateful for my time on this show, from the highs of performing in front of millions and the extreme challenge of learning a new routine within 3 days every week, it’s been incredible. I didn’t know how much it meant to me until I got a bit emotional after my dance off; however, I don’t think it was the dancing that pushed me over the edge, but the two years of the constant challenge with myself combined with the energy to win the Olympics and becoming a father at the same time. My emotions are one of my strongest attributes and I’m not ashamed to show that I’m human."
Adam admitted he has a lot of "healing" to do and went on to thank Katya and everyone on the show for their support.
He continued: "It’s crazy to me because I thought I was “ok” but I am not. We all have to wear a piece of armour to get the job done and it wasn’t until this week that I knew I could let it go. I’m still healing from the trials and tribulations that elite sporting athletes go through but with that I’m also adapting and learning from life. Thank you Katya for being there every single day, you are incredible. I don’t have enough positive words for you and what an amazing person and dancer you are. Thank you to everyone behind the scenes, you are brilliant. I’m so grateful for everyone who has made this experience so amazing. @tillyramsay you were incredible and I’m so glad you get to show how much of an amazing dancer you are again next week!"
Addressing the pair's critics, he added: "For the people who tried to bring us down throughout the show, please challenge yourself to be better. The world needs much more positivity and truth."
Adam concluded: "Time to get some rest (although my book launches this week!!!) I’ll come back the strongest version of the real me and I can’t wait to start racing again!
"A very special mention to all of the band, wardrobe, hair, makeup, set builders, camera crew and every who makes this show what it is, you are just brilliant."