Shakira celebrates ‘special’ FIFA World Cup journey and the power of music

Shakira has opened up about her memorable connection with the FIFA World Cup, sharing her pride over being part of a tournament that brought fans around the world together.

The 49-year-old singer performed during the half-time show of the World Cup final in New Jersey and said she was thrilled by the response to “Dai Dai,” the official song of the tournament, which she created with Nigerian artist Burna Boy.

Speaking to People, Shakira described the World Cup experience as a meaningful moment in her career.

“This World Cup has been so special for so many reasons,” she said.

“I loved seeing the reaction to the song Dai Dai and how it brought people together, seeing people do the choreo and celebrate together with it.”

The global superstar, who previously performed Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, praised football’s unique ability to unite people despite differences around the world.

“The world might be very divided these days, but the World Cup is one of those rare moments where everyone actually unites and rallies around a common passion, and that’s why I love being a part of it so much,” Shakira said.

“The world is meant to meet. It’s so meaningful to me to have songs that inspire with a message and bring people joy.”

Meanwhile, Shakira recently revealed that she once considered leaving the music industry after years of success.

The Grammy-winning artist admitted she was ready to step away from performing and live a quieter life.

“A few years ago, I was ready to just buy a farm, raise animals, and retire from music,” she told Vogue.

However, looking back, Shakira said she realised she still had more stories to share and more creativity to explore.

“I look back, and I’m like, ‘How crazy is that?’ I had and have so much more to say and to do. Sometimes we just take what we do for granted, or just forget about who we are.”

Despite having a career spanning decades, Shakira continues to enjoy performing for her fans. The singer, who shares sons Milan, 13, and Sasha, 11, with former footballer Gerard Piqué, said she feels deeply connected to her audience.

“When I perform, I don’t just do it in front of ‘an audience’,” she explained.

“I do it surrounded by my family. I feel that my fans, those who have fun in the crowd, those who have listened to my music for so long … I feel they really understand me, and they also know my flaws. They don’t condemn my defects.”

Shakira continues to embrace music as a way to connect with people, using her performances and songs to spread messages of unity and happiness.