Bindi Irwin Wins Dancing with the Stars USA

Bindi Irwin and her professional dance partner, Derek Hough, were presented with the mirror ball trophy for the Dancing with the Stars season finale yesterday, taking out the title for season 21 of the popular American reality TV show.

Dancing the Quick Step and an emotional Freestyle dance for her father Steve, Bindi once again impressed judges scoring two perfect 30s in part one of the finals and another perfect 30 in part two. From combined judge's scores and the votes from supporters all over the world, Team Crikey came out on top with a well-deserved victory!

Bindi was the only female in the final and is now also the only Australian to have ever won the American version of the show. Bindi was a fan favourite from the beginning and scored consistently well from the judges throughout the entire season, showcasing a hidden talent the world had not yet seen.

As audiences heard throughout the season, Bindi has been extremely grateful for her new experience, however, it hasn't been without its challenges, both physical and emotional.  Bindi has overcome foot injuries, bruises and sickness – and on top of that, the emotion of revisiting her most difficult days. Her challenges are what have made her accomplishment and huge success all the more meaningful.

Bindi is absolutely thrilled to be crowned champion and is very grateful for everything her dance partner and mentor, Derek did to help them get there.

'I can't believe I'm here. I'm this girl from Australia who works with wildlife, and I got to learn how to dance and now I'm here and it's all thanks, honestly, to Derek for always believing in me and staying strong... I'm so, so lucky!" said Bindi.

'I'm looking forward to coming home to Australia Zoo on the beautiful Sunshine Coast to see all of our awesome animals and everyone who has supported me. This experience has been truly life changing," she added. 

After a huge 11 weeks of rigorous training and performing, Bindi is looking forward to returning home to the Sunshine Coast next week with her mum Terri and brother Robert. After some much-needed rest and relaxation, Bindi will be joining in the celebration for Robert's 12^th birthday at Australia Zoo on Tuesday 1^st December.

Bindi, the Irwin family and everyone at Australia Zoo is extremely grateful for the overwhelming support received throughout Bindi's entire Dancing with the Stars journey and especially over the last day following her win.

SCORES: Season premier: 24/30, Hometown Glory Night 1: 25/30, Hometown Glory Night 2: 23/30, TV Night: 32/40, Most Memorable Year: 28/30, The Switch Up: 37/40, Famous Dances Night: 40/40, Halloween: 30/30, America's Choice Dance Off: 64% of America's vote, Showstoppers: 30/30, Semi-Finals: 27/30, The Finals - Season Finale Part 1: 30/30, The Finals - Season Finale Part 2: 30/30 = CHAMPIONS!