Hudson Sings National Anthem at World Cup Final Attended by Trump

Hudson Sings National Anthem at World Cup Final Attended by Trump

Jennifer Hudson performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” before the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with President Donald Trump watching from a suite alongside first lady Melania Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. A crowd reported at more than 80,000 received Hudson’s performance with sustained applause, and Trump was shown on the broadcast at its conclusion.

The pre-match ceremony also featured British singer-songwriter Robbie Williams and actor Tom Cruise, who addressed the crowd on the theme of unity across the three host nations – the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The World Cup trophy was presented in a Louis Vuitton case by Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz, and 1978 Argentina World Cup champion Mario Kempes lifted it before the crowd ahead of kick-off. Earlier in the week, Trump had appeared alongside Infantino at a FIFA reception held at Trump Tower in New York City.

Both finalists carried significant historical weight into the match. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, entered as defending champions after defeating France in the 2022 Qatar final. Spain, featuring forward Lamine Yamal, were appearing in their second World Cup final, having won their first in 2010. The United States had been eliminated in the Round of 16 by Belgium, but as a co-host nation provided the venue for the tournament’s concluding fixture.

With the ceremony concluded, attention turned to the match itself – and to which nation would leave East Rutherford holding the trophy at the final whistle.