Maura Higgins Returns to Dancing With The Stars Amid Injury Concerns

Maura Higgins has made her return to Dancing With The Stars, delivering an emotional performance dedicated to Ireland while managing a painful neck injury. Higgins, 35, performed an energetic Paso Doble with her professional partner Mark Ballas, joined by World Champion Irish dancer Lochlan Howard. Her costume featured a sparkling green ensemble with a train incorporating the colors of the Irish flag.

The judges lauded the performance as 'amazing' and 'fun,' awarding the pair a score of 35 out of 40. Despite the success, sources close to Higgins have expressed concern that she is 'pushing herself to breaking point' during her tenure on the U.S. show.

Last week, the reality television personality sustained an agonizing neck injury during rehearsals, noting that the pain had worsened as the competition intensified. In rehearsal footage, Higgins was seen in visible pain, requiring medical attention after falling and holding her neck. She described experiencing a 'twinge' on the left side of her neck, expressing concern that the injury could affect her live performances.

Despite the physical challenges, Higgins completed her recent performance. She recently quipped about her condition, joking at the Victoria's Secret fashion show that her 'ribs are currently broken' due to a tight corset. However, friends indicate that her drive may be leading her to overexert herself.

One friend told The Sun that while they are proud of her achievements, there is a worry that she is attempting too much simultaneously. "She's always been incredibly driven and doesn't like letting opportunities pass her by," the friend stated. "But the people who love her want her to understand that she doesn't have to push herself to breaking point to prove herself."

Prior to her performance, Higgins shared on Instagram her pride in her Irish heritage. She wrote about chasing dreams globally but never forgetting her roots, emphasizing the kindness, humor, and strength of the Irish people. "To be able to celebrate my roots on a stage like @dancingwiththestars is something my younger self could only have dreamed of!!" she posted. She dedicated the performance to her supporters back home.

Fellow Love Island stars, including Molly-Mae Hague, Tasha Ghouri, and Lana Jenkins, expressed their excitement and support in the comments section of her post.

This week's episode featured guest judge Kym Johnson alongside regular judges Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli. The theme for the week was Dedication Night, which saw several moving performances. Notably, there were no eliminations, with all 10 remaining couples advancing to the next round.