Former England footballer Alex Scott has revealed how her stint on Strictly Come Dancing became a life-changing experience that helped her conquer anxiety and discover a new side of herself. The BBC sports pundit, who traded football boots for dancing shoes in 2019, described the journey as "therapeutic" and completely transformative.
From Pitch to Parlour: A Surprising Transition
Scott, who made history as the first female pundit on BBC's Match of the Day, admitted she initially struggled with the transition from sports professionalism to entertainment. "When you come from that world of sport, you're taught to be this strong athlete who doesn't show emotion," she explained. The dancing competition forced her to break down those barriers and embrace vulnerability in front of millions.
Breaking Through the Anxiety Barrier
The 39-year-old revealed that behind her confident television persona lay significant anxiety about public perception. Strictly Come Dancing became an unexpected form of therapy, pushing her beyond her comfort zone. "It taught me it's okay to be vulnerable," Scott shared. "That experience completely changed me as a person."
A Newfound Confidence
Since her Strictly journey, Scott has noticed a remarkable shift in her confidence levels, both on and off screen. The former Arsenal defender, who now appears regularly on BBC's The One Show, credits the dancing competition with giving her the tools to handle the pressures of live television with newfound poise.
Her partnership with professional dancer Neil Jones saw them reach the quarter-finals, creating memorable performances that showcased her athleticism and growing artistry. The experience has left a lasting impact on how Scott approaches her broadcasting career and personal life.
