'Strictly Come Dancing' professional Pasha Kovalev has decided to quit the show after "eight fantastic years".

Pasha Kovalev

Pasha Kovalev

The 39-year-old Latin and ballroom dancer has announced that his appearance on the 2018 run of the BBC One series - on which he made it to the final with his partner Ashley Roberts - will be his last as he wants to find a "new challenge".

In a statement posted on Twitter, he wrote: "After scoring 93 perfect tens, reaching four finals and lifting one Glitterball, it's time for me to find a new challenge and so I've decided to make last year - my final season on Strictly.

"I've had eight fantastic years, full of wonderful memories, thanks to the incredible partners, professionals and myriad of behind the scenes teams who all work to make Strictly the amazing production that it is."

Pasha ended his post by paying tribute to all the viewers who have supported him and voted for him over the past several years.

He added: "The biggest thanks go to all the members of the public who've supported me so much over these years - I look forward to seeing you on the Strictly Pro-Tour this spring, and for many future adventures to come!"

The official 'Strictly Come Dancing' Twitter page confirmed his decision and thanked him for his contribution to the programme.

The tweet read: "Sadly after eight incredible series, the brilliant @PashaKovalev has decided to leave #Strictly. Pasha, from all of us, thank you for your amazing choreography and routines over the years. You'll be sorely missed!"

Pasha has a lot to be thankful to 'Strictly' for as he met his girlfriend Rachel Riley on the programme in 2013 when he was partnered with her.

The Russian hunk joined 'Strictly' in 2011 after having previously worked on American show 'So You Think You Can Dance?' and his only victory came in 2014 when he and 'Love Island' presenter Caroline Flack danced to perfect scores in the final to win glitterball trophy.

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