Shakira in 2024: “It’s Kind Of Good Not To Have A Husband Because I Don’t Know Why It Was Dragging Me Down. I Might Not Grow Old with a Partner, but I Will Grow Old Surrounded by Good Friends.”

In the years following her highly publicized separation from former footballer Gerard Piqué, Colombian superstar Shakira has embarked on a notable personal and professional transformation. The couple, who shared over a decade together and raised two sons, parted ways in 2022. Since then, Shakira has openly reflected on the liberation she found in embracing life without a partner, attributing this newfound freedom to an invigorated artistic drive.

Shakira and Piqué’s relationship, which began around the time of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, was intertwined with their public personas and careers. Piqué, a prominent Spanish defender who represented his country in three World Cups, initially connected with Shakira during the filming of her iconic "Waka Waka" video. Their union became a focal point in media narratives that blended sports and entertainment.

However, the years together saw Shakira reconfigure her priorities, at times putting her career on pause to support Piqué’s athletic pursuits. The eventual split appeared to catalyze a creative resurgence for the artist, who has mentioned that the constraints of her previous relationship were hindering her artistic output.

This renewed energy culminated dramatically in 2024 when Shakira was selected to record the official anthem for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Her role expanded further as she headlined the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show in New Jersey, sharing the stage with global icons such as Madonna, BTS, and Justin Bieber. Her performance, notably featuring the track "Dai Dai" alongside Burna Boy, was marked by a striking Roberto Cavalli crystal-embellished bodysuit, underscoring her status as a global music figure.

Meanwhile, Piqué attended the World Cup final accompanied by their children, Milan and Sasha, highlighting an amicable co-parenting dynamic. Their sons were visibly engaged during Shakira’s halftime show, captured enthusiastically singing and cheering, while Piqué’s demeanor was more reserved. Spain ultimately triumphed with a 1-0 victory in extra time, courtesy of Ferran Torres, who was later honored by Shakira herself during the event.

Shakira’s candid reflections on her relationship status surfaced in interviews throughout 2024. She described her previous marriage as a burden that had curtailed her professional ambitions, emphasizing how singlehood has enabled her to focus more intently on her music. This period of independence has not only revitalized her songwriting but also allowed her to prioritize meaningful friendships over romantic attachments.

The juxtaposition of Shakira’s and Piqué’s World Cup journeys provides a compelling narrative of two public figures navigating personal evolution amid global spotlight. While Piqué’s playing career concluded with notable achievements on the pitch, Shakira has steadily reclaimed her position at the forefront of international music, culminating in historic World Cup performances that have defined her post-divorce era.

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Shakira’s continued involvement in the tournament’s cultural celebrations signals her enduring influence and resilience. Her story reflects broader themes of reinvention and empowerment, serving as a testament to the ways personal setbacks can fuel creative and professional resurgence.

Details on forthcoming projects remain limited, but Shakira’s trajectory illustrates a clear shift toward autonomy and artistic exploration. Her journey from a supportive partner to a dominant solo force on the world stage encapsulates a significant chapter in her career, underscoring the intersection of personal growth and public acclaim.