Strictly Come Dancing star Nadiya Bychkova has candidly revealed that she finds it "difficult to date" in the modern world, especially after her high-profile split from fellow professional dancer Kai Widdrington. The Ukrainian performer, aged 36, ended her two-year relationship with Widdrington, 30, back in 2024, and has since reflected on the complexities of forming new connections while under public scrutiny.
Navigating Relationships in the Spotlight
In an exclusive interview with The Mirror, Nadiya opened up about the pressures of dating when every move is watched by fans and media alike. "In general, nowadays it's difficult to date, and it takes time to get to know a person," she explained. The dancer emphasised that this challenge isn't unique to celebrities, noting that building any meaningful relationship—whether friendship, business partnership, or romance—requires patience and careful consideration.
"It doesn't matter if you're on TV or not," Nadiya continued. "Whether it's a friendship, a business partner or a relationship or whatever it may be, I'm just taking things slow." This measured approach reflects her desire to prioritise authenticity over haste, particularly in an era where social media and dating apps often dominate the romantic landscape.
Rejecting Dating Apps for Authentic Connections
Nadiya has firmly ruled out using dating applications to meet potential partners, citing her preference for genuine, face-to-face interactions. "I don't think they are for me," she stated. "I prefer conversation, and meeting someone authentically in real life. I don't think I would be able to judge a person by a photo—it can be misleading."
This stance highlights her commitment to forming connections based on substance rather than superficial impressions, a philosophy that extends beyond her personal life into her professional ethos as a dancer and television personality.
Life After Kai Widdrington
The breakup with Kai Widdrington, which occurred in 2024 after two years together, has left a noticeable chill in their professional relationship. Nadiya hinted at the current dynamic between them, saying, "We work together but we are not friends and that's OK." She assured fans that their on-stage chemistry remains impeccable due to her professionalism, adding, "One thing I can tell you is that when you see me dancing with him it will be amazing because I'm a professional."
Widdrington has since moved on with girlfriend Chloe Wells, while Nadiya focuses on her career and family. She shares a nine-year-old daughter named Mila with her former fiancé, Slovenian footballer Matija Škarabot, and proudly notes that Mila is following in her footsteps as a dancer. When asked about expanding her family, Nadiya expressed openness, saying she would "absolutely" like to have more children "if the stars align."
Strictly Come Dancing Career Highlights and Setbacks
Nadiya's journey on Strictly Come Dancing has seen both triumphs and disappointments. She has partnered with seven celebrities over the years, most memorably with news presenter Dan Walker, with whom she reached the quarter-finals. However, her luck turned in the last series when she was paired with rugby player Chris Robshaw and was eliminated third, missing out on the Strictly tour.
Reflecting on this early exit, Nadiya said, "Chris and I were out quite early this season, so I didn't get to go on tour with him, but at the same time, it's nice to take some time off, and not be on the road." She acknowledged the competitive nature of the show, stating, "Everybody wants to win the glitter ball. We all want to take the celebrity we've been given for the whole journey and teach them as many dances as we can, but someone has to go early unfortunately."
Dream Dance Partners and Royal Connections
Despite the ups and downs, Nadiya harbours ambitious dreams for future Strictly partnerships. She revealed a particularly lofty aspiration: dancing with Prince William. This idea came after Princess Anne expressed her fandom for the show to Nadiya. "Maybe Prince William… I don't think so but that's OK," she mused. "He is the future King." While she doubts the show's bookers could secure such a high-profile participant, the notion underscores her enthusiasm for the programme's potential.
Claudia Winkleman's Departure and Behind-the-Scenes Bonds
In related Strictly news, former host Claudia Winkleman has shared insights into her decision to leave the show. She told the Daily Mail, "The show deserves new. We wanted to leave when we were on an absolute high." Winkleman's departure marks the end of an era, but her friendship with co-host Tess Daly remains strong off-camera.
The pair have even planned a special weekend together to watch the first episode of the upcoming series. "Tess and I are spending the weekend together and watching the first one," Winkleman disclosed. "It's diarised." This gesture highlights the enduring bonds formed among the Strictly team, even as cast members come and go.
Nadiya Bychkova's reflections on dating, her career, and personal life offer a rare glimpse into the realities of being a public figure. As she navigates post-breakup life and continues to shine on Strictly Come Dancing, her story resonates with anyone facing the challenges of modern relationships and professional perseverance.
