Robert Irwin has officially followed in the footsteps of his famous sister, Bindi Irwin, by winning the coveted Dancing With The Stars (DWTS) Mirrorball Trophy. Teaming up with professional dance partner Witney Carson, the 21-year-old conservationist and television personality clinched victory on the season 34 finale, which aired on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.

His win comes almost exactly ten years after Bindi Irwin claimed the Mirrorball Trophy with partner Derek Hough, making the achievement a truly special milestone for the Irwin family. In an exclusive backstage interview with PEOPLE, Robert shared that this accomplishment “means everything” to him and revealed how profoundly it has impacted his life.

“To follow in those footsteps and to do the same has meant everything to me,” Robert said. “This has absolutely changed my life.”

A Victory That Honors Family Legacy

For Robert, the DWTS win is not just a personal achievement—it’s also a way to honor his sister’s legacy and continue promoting the family’s conservation efforts. Watching Bindi lift the Mirrorball Trophy years ago was particularly meaningful, as it allowed her to spread awareness about the Irwin family’s conservation work, Australia Zoo, and their charity, Wildlife Warriors.

“It’s about making the world a better place. And when I watched her lift that mirror ball, I saw her lifting that message,” Robert explained.

Gratitude for Dance Partner Witney Carson

Robert also expressed heartfelt appreciation for Witney Carson, praising her dedication and partnership throughout the season.

“I’m just so grateful that I was here on this journey with Witney. You’ve got me forever,” he said. “Whitney pours her heart and soul into this, and I’m just so happy that we are here.”

Carson reciprocated the sentiment, stating that she “can’t think of anyone more deserving” than Robert of the Mirrorball Trophy.

“I feel like I’ve been so proud of you week to week, and just to see you shine has been one of my biggest highlights in my life,” Carson added.

Overcoming Challenges on the Road to Victory

The path to the season 34 finale wasn’t without challenges. Robert suffered a rib injury just before the final performance, which made the final days of preparation especially grueling. In a TikTok posted by Carson on Monday, November 24, she revealed that both she and Robert were feeling the physical toll after 11 weeks of intense and rigorous dancing.

“Robert’s ribs have been killing him. We’re just trying to keep it together for, like, two more days. Literally today and tomorrow, and then it’s over,” Carson shared.

Fierce Competition at DWTS Season 34 Finale

Robert and Witney faced stiff competition from other talented contestants in the race for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. Among the competitors were influencer Alix Earle paired with Valentin Chmerkovskiy, Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles with Ezra Sosa, television personality Dylan Efron with Daniella Karagach, and actress Elaine Hendrix partnered with Alan Bersten.

Despite the challenges, Robert’s skill, dedication, and passion for dance ultimately earned him the top prize, cementing his place alongside his sister in DWTS history.

A Milestone Moment for the Irwin Family

Robert’s win on Dancing With The Stars 2025 is more than a trophy—it’s a moment that celebrates family, perseverance, and the continuing impact of the Irwin legacy. By following in Bindi’s footsteps, Robert has not only achieved personal success but has also amplified the family’s mission to inspire conservation and wildlife awareness around the globe.

“This has changed my life,” Robert said, reflecting on the significance of his achievement.

With this milestone, the Irwin family continues to show that dedication, passion, and heart can make a difference—both on and off the dance floor.