A gutted Adam Peaty urged his Strictly Come Dancing critics to ‘be better’ following his elimination from the BBC series.
Olympian Adam, 26, was knocked out of the show following a dance off up against Tilly Ramsay and Nikita Kuzmin.
But the emotional swimmer had plenty to get off his chest following the result last night (Sunday November 7).
He took to Instagram to thank his Strictly dance pro Katya Jones, explain his feelings and take aim at detractors.
What Adam Peaty wrote on Instagram
Captioning a series of snaps, Adam shared a lengthy address in which he spoke about ‘healing’, as well as thanking Katya and others behind the scenes.
He wrote: “What an experience Strictly 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 three days every week, it’s been incredible.
Read more: Strictly results: Fans declare ‘it’s becoming a joke’ as Adam Peaty leaves the competition
“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.”
‘I’m still healing’
Adam also wrote about ‘letting go’ after ‘wearing a piece of armour to get the job done’.
He continued: “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.”
Please challenge yourself to be better.
He also wished Tilly the best before hitting back at unidentified critics.
Adam 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.”
View this post on Instagram
How people reacted to the words from Adam Peaty about his Strictly departure
Katya told her ‘inspirational’ dance partner it is time to take a well-earned break.
She commented: “You are an inspiration. I will be forever grateful for this chapter. Thank you for being authentic self, making so many people happy, but it’s time to look after yourself.”
Several other Strictly celebs and dance pros also expressed their admiration for the eight-time World champion.
Ugo Monye and Nadiya Bychkova both hailed him as “champ”, while Gorka Marquez wrote: “We’ll miss you guys.”
Nancy Xu and Oti Mabuse posted a series of heart emojis and Amy Dowden added: “Beautiful words! Will miss you both.”
AJ Odudu commiserated: “Head up! You’ve done yourself and everyone who loves you proud. Miss you already.”
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And Dan Walker contributed: “The best of us.”
Other tributes were also made from other top athletes such as Max Whitlock, Becky Adlington and Dina Asher-Smith.
Strictly Come Dancing continues next Saturday, November 13, on BBC One at 6.40pm.
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