Rihanna garnered significant online attention after footage emerged of her casually performing the Macarena during the World Cup final. The singer, 38, was present at the match held at New York's MetLife Stadium, where Spain secured their second World Cup title by defeating Argentina 1-0.
During a hydration break in the game, Rihanna joined attendees in dancing to the popular song. Videos shared across social media platforms showed the star, accompanied by her boyfriend ASAP Rocky, performing a subdued version of the dance without setting down her champagne glass. The clips led many fans to praise her for embracing the event's atmosphere and for her seemingly relaxed and authentic demeanor.
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky are parents to three children, welcoming their youngest daughter in September 2025, and also have two sons. The superstar, whose last studio album was released in 2016, has focused on her family and burgeoning business ventures in the intervening years, which have contributed to her billionaire status.
In recent weeks, Rihanna returned to performing after a three-year hiatus. She appeared on stage for a performance with Jay-Z, though the event experienced delays. The concert was reportedly impacted by a large number of ticketless individuals attempting to enter the venue, leading to security lockdowns and a delayed start. Jay-Z apologized to the audience for the inconvenience, citing safety concerns that prevented the show from beginning on time.
While some audience members and online viewers praised Rihanna and Jay-Z's stage presence, others expressed criticism. Some social media users described the performance as a "hot a** mess" and noted that Rihanna appeared to be "rusty" and "tired," with some questioning her commitment to singing all the lyrics. Rihanna herself acknowledged being "rusty" to the crowd, attributing it to the time away from performing.
Discussions online also touched on her evolution as an artist and businesswoman, with some suggesting she shift her focus from performing to her successful enterprises. Others offered constructive feedback, proposing that she work with a vocal coach and dance instructors to regain her performing edge.