Pre-match preparations for the 2026 World Cup final in New Jersey were full of pomp and ceremony, as one might expect.
The World Cup final is a showpiece event as it is. The biggest game in soccer only rolls around every four years, and few sporting occasions can match up to it in terms of global interest.
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Throw in the fact that it’s being held in the land of show business and event organizers were always going to pull out all the stops.
A lot of what FIFA put on before the World Cup final kicked off was criticized on social media. Jennifer Hudson’s rendition of the ‘Star-Spangled Banner’, however, was not.
Fans impressed by Hudson singing Star-Spangled Banner
There were positively no doubts that the Oscar winner would impress. Of all the things to lament during opening ceremonies, a performance from someone as talented as Hudson is not one of them.
Unsurprisingly, Hudson’s performance went down a storm on social media platform X.
Standing on a plinth in the middle of the field at the New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) in East Rutherford, the 44-year-old delivered an emotional and powerful version of the song to the delight of the viewers.
One fan wrote:”Jennifer Hudson singing the USA anthem, wow!”
Another added: “That was brilliant.”
This supporter said: “Loved her performance.”
“Jennifer Hudson should sing our National anthem for every single sporting event for the rest of time,” was another response.
“Incredible performance by Jennifer Hudson!” commented another fan.
The tournament has been such a success for the United States that president Donald Trump – who attended this year’s final between Spain and Argentina – has already expressed his interest in securing the competition’s return to the country.
Countries and soccer federations cannot bid for a World Cup yet. The next available edition to bid for is the 2038 tournament.
Perhaps fans might be treated to another performance from Hudson in 12 years’ time…
Read more:
‘Why is he there?’ – World Cup fans react to Robbie Williams’ World Cup final performance
President Donald Trump details plan he put forward to FIFA to host another World Cup in America
Tom Cruise shows off surprising soccer skills in World Cup final commercial for new movie
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