Cheryl Burke Praises Ryan Lochte as One of Top Five 'Dancing' Partners
Lochte and Burke were eliminated in week eight of "Dancing."
— -- Cheryl Burke is one of the longest-running professional dancers on “Dancing With the Stars,” but she said her partner this season, Ryan Lochte, is one of her favorites.
“After all the seasons, 19 partners, I have to say, you’re top five, Ryan Lochte,” Burke said today on “Good Morning America.” “You were awesome to work with.”
Burke and Olympic gold medalist Lochte were eliminated Monday night in week eight of “Dancing."
Burke, who returned this season after a three-season break from the show, said she enjoyed getting to know “the real Ryan Lochte.”
“It was amazing,” Burke said. “If I can actually help somebody with whatever that they’re going through, then I’m here. ... It meant more than anything.”
Lochte, 32, competed on “Dancing" after a tumultuous summer in which his medal-winning run at the Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro was tarnished when Lochte admitted he "overexaggerated" a story about being robbed along with three teammates.
Lochte lost sponsorships and was suspended for 10 months by the United States Olympic Committee and USA Swimming. His “Dancing" debut was even marred by two protestors who stormed the ballroom floor while wearing anti-Lochte T-shirts.
Lochte said he was at “the lowest point” of his life when he joined “Dancing," but learned valuable lessons while on the show.
“No matter how hard I get knocked down, I can still get up and keep fighting, just keep moving and stay positive,” Lochte said.
Lochte credited Burke with helping him stay positive. He said he’ll also rely on Burke to help him choreograph his wedding dance.
Lochte became engaged to fiancee Kayla Rae Reid in October, but they have not yet set a wedding date.
Burke said she would just like one month off before helping Lochte again.
“I told him, I said, ‘You have 10 dances I’ve taught you. You could mix it up a little,’” Burke recalled.
Six couples remain in the “Dancing" competition.
Burke said she predicts either Laurie Hernandez or James Hinchcliffe will win, while Lochte said he believes Hinchcliffe will take home the mirror ball.