**Shakira’s Enduring Connection to the World Cup: A Journey Through Music and Family**
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Shakira’s relationship with the World Cup is profound and multifaceted, spanning nearly two decades and intertwining with both her career and personal life. The Colombian singer, known for her infectious hits and dynamic performances, has become a standard bearer for the tournament, marking significant milestones in her life through soccer.
In a recent conversation with PEOPLE, the 49-year-old pop sensation reflected on how deeply soccer has influenced her journey. From her first performance at the 2006 World Cup to the momentous events of 2010, Shakira feels that this relationship is “unbreakable.” She highlights that the 2010 tournament was particularly pivotal, as it was during this event that she met Gerard Piqué, her former partner and the father of her two sons, Milan and Sasha.
Shakira’s musical journey began at the 2006 World Cup when she performed “Hips Don’t Lie” with Wyclef Jean. This opportunity marked the beginning of her strong affiliation with the event. In 2010, she solidified her place in World Cup lore by debuting “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” a song that not only resonated with fans globally, but also served as a personal turning point.
“My history with soccer goes back to 2006. That song [Waka Waka] took me to the World Cup and the World Cup had an important impact in my life,” Shakira explained. She went on to affectionately refer to her children as the “Waka kids,” a playful nod to the song that she considers a gateway to the family she cherishes today.
Soccer’s influence on her life continued into the 2014 World Cup, a year that saw Shakira performing her track “La La La (Brazil 2014).” This performance came at a time when she was pregnant with her youngest son, Sasha. Recalling the moment, Shakira jokingly shared how her fans quickly spotted her pregnancy, demonstrating the closeness she shares with her audience. “They knew me so well,” she noted, highlighting the intimate connection fostered through her music and performances.
As she gears up for this year’s festivities, set to unfold in a politically and socially sensitive climate, Shakira feels that the event is about more than just sport. “Every World Cup is something really magical,” she stated, expressing her belief that this tournament will play a crucial role in bringing people together during challenging times.
Shakira made her presence felt at the recent opening match, performing “Dai Dai,” the official World Cup song, alongside Burna Boy. Fans were thrilled to see her once again take the stage, marking yet another chapter in her ongoing association with the tournament.
Perhaps most notably, Shakira is set to make history at the finals on July 18 at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, as she prepares for the first-ever halftime show in World Cup history. Co-headlining with legendary artists Madonna and BTS, the performance is poised to be a landmark moment both for the singer and for the event.
When asked about her enduring connection with World Cup organisers, Shakira’s reply was succinct yet poignant: “Fate.” This word encapsulates her sentiment about the serendipitous pathways that have led her to her musical collaborations with the tournament, bridging her artistry with a shared love of soccer.
For Shakira, each World Cup represents not just a series of musical performances but a lasting legacy intertwined with her family and identity. As she looks ahead, it is clear that her bond with the sport will continue to flourish, shaping both her career and personal life in ways that resonate with millions around the world.