Shirley Ballas Instagram – Dearest Ferdi and Yulia, I’m sorry I couldn’t be there for your final dance as you retired from competing. An emotional moment of reflection on one of the most beautiful careers ever in the history of dance. Yulia, I first met you when you were a young teenage girl who had a passion for the art of Latin American dancing, you had a work ethic beyond anything I had come across before. I remember the day we first met Ferdi as a future partner who was so gifted and extremely kind. It was a team made in heaven with so much promise. Over the years I witnessed the sacrifices you both made to focus on getting to the very top of the industry. When you have two hearts that beat as one, work ethic and desire to reach your goals how can you loose. I’ve watched in awe as you both achieved what you set out to achieve. With ups and downs throughout your lives you held on to your dreams and have become two phenomenal dancers in our industry. I’m so so proud of you both. Thank you both for your loyalty and dedication to those around you that have stood by you throughout this journey. My family wish you nothing but the very very best as you move forward on this next part of your life that I’m sure will be filled with so much love. ❤️ you truly are two of the kindest people I have ever met and I’ll carry forward in my life all our beautiful memories, the laughter and the tears. You will always be family for me. I feel blessed and I have so much gratitude for you both being a part of my life for over 20 years. With respect for all you have achieved, I love you both more than you will ever know. Simply the best 😘 💋 @yuliamusikhina @ferdi33