Australian singer Delta Goodrem's performance at the Commonwealth Games closing ceremony in Glasgow has sparked debate among viewers, with some questioning the extent of her stage time.
Goodrem performed a medley of her hits, including "Born to Try," "Sitting on Top of the World," "Eclipse," "Lost Without You," and "Wings." She also joined Scottish singer Cammy Barnes for a rendition of John Farnham's "You're the Voice."
However, the inclusion of a prominent Australian artist in the closing ceremony drew criticism from some viewers who felt Scottish or other UK performers should have been given more prominence. "Should have a Scottish/English singer," one viewer commented, while another expressed a similar sentiment, "Should have got someone from Glasgow, or England at least."
Some viewers specifically questioned why Goodrem received more stage time than Scottish artists such as Simple Minds, Sandi Thom, Bemz, and Elephant Sessions. A viewer from New Zealand also questioned Goodrem's opening slot, stating, "As a Kiwi I couldn't understand why Delta (whom I do like) was the first entertainer—surely Scotland should have been the one."
Conversely, many fans defended Goodrem's appearance. Supporters highlighted that she performed only three songs and was fulfilling a requested role. "She sang three songs ... and people are angry over it?" one fan wrote. Another defended her, stating, "Great to have an entertainer of her calibre close out the games. Are Australians taking over the title of the world's biggest whingers?"
Goodrem's performance acknowledged Australia's connection to the Games, which were originally slated to be hosted by Victoria before the state government withdrew. Glasgow stepped in as the replacement host city, delivering a scaled-back event.
This performance marked a significant moment for Goodrem, who previously sang "Together We Are One" at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 and appeared at the Gold Coast Games in 2018. She expressed her honor in representing Australia on a major international stage. "It's always an enormous privilege to represent Australia," she said, adding, "The Commonwealth Games have such a strong connection to our country, and, of course, these Games were originally associated with Victoria, so I feel very proud to carry a little piece of Australia with me to Glasgow."
Goodrem also noted her personal connection to Scotland, revealing that most of her ancestors were Scottish. She mentioned her familiarity with Glasgow audiences, having begun her first European headline tour there in 2023 and performing at Stirling Castle in 2024.
Australia concluded the Games at the top of the medal table with 171 medals, including 70 gold. The ceremony concluded with a performance by Simple Minds, followed by fireworks. The Commonwealth Games baton was then passed to Ahmedabad, India, the host city for the 2030 Games.