Singer Shakira's appearance at a World Cup match on Monday led to social media concern when a video appeared to show an uncomfortable interaction. However, the moment, captured during Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria at Dallas Stadium, was clarified as a display of affection from her eldest son, Milan.
During the broadcast, a person seated next to the Colombian star leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. The interaction, with the individual's face partially obscured by a cap, prompted some viewers to question Shakira's well-being and identify the person as a stranger. Social media posts voiced worries, with some users asking if Shakira was alright and who the man was.
The individual was identified as Milan, Shakira's 13-year-old son, whom she shares with her former partner, soccer star Gerard Pique. Milan was wearing a black polo top and a white cap, which contributed to the confusion. His animated gesture, which included appearing to pull slightly on his mother's hair, may have been the reason for Shakira's seemingly reluctant reaction.
Shakira also attended the stadium with her younger son, Sasha, 11. The singer, who recorded the official anthem for the 2026 World Cup with rapper Burna Boy, was seen enjoying the game from a VIP suite. She officially kicked off the 2026 tournament with a performance at the opening ceremony in Mexico City on June 11, where she sang the song "Dai Dai" alongside Burna Boy.
Shakira and Pique, who met during the production of the 2010 FIFA World Cup music video, separated in June 2022. Their split followed rumors of Pique's infidelity with his current girlfriend, Clara Chia Marti. Shakira later released a song in January 2023 that alluded to the alleged betrayal. Following their separation, Shakira and her sons relocated to Miami after the former couple reached a custody agreement.
Pique, who retired from professional soccer in November 2022, was not part of the Spanish team at the World Cup. Shakira, meanwhile, has been a prominent figure at the tournament, including her opening ceremony performance.