Long the judges' favorite, former figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi won the Mirror Ball trophy on Tuesday night's finale of ABC's "Dancing With the Stars."

Yamaguchi, with partner Mark Ballas, dominated Monday's three-couple finals round, earning two perfect 30s from judges Len Goodman, Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli — then posted another 30 out of 30 yesterday.

Miami Dolphins star Jason Taylor finished second. Actor Cristian de la Fuente, injured in competition three weeks ago, came in third place in the 10-week-long competition.

"I never, ever thought I would get to this point," Taylor said. "I never thought I would do the show. And here I am today in the finals. And you know what? Kristi is so deserving."

Even so, Taylor and Sliwinska had their own unforgettable night. They avoided early elimination despite trailing de la Fuente 52-51 after Monday, then scored a 30 out of 30 in their final dance, a quickstep.

It wasn't enough, but Goodman still dubbed Taylor "the people's champion" ... perfect for a man who wants acting to be part of his post-football future.