Shakira is having a massive moment right now, and it’s no surprise. The Colombian pop queen, known for smash hits like Hips Don’t Lie and Whenever, Wherever, is back at the top of the music scene. Her latest album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, is nominated for Best Latin Pop Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards and features none other than Cardi B on the fiery single Puntería.
The album is rumored to be deeply personal, with lyrics influenced by her breakup from longtime partner Gerard Piqué. But who exactly is Piqué, and why has he become such a major part of Shakira’s narrative? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Shakira’s ex and their now-dissolved relationship.
Who Is Gerard Piqué?
While Shakira is a global superstar who needs no introduction, Gerard Piqué may not be as familiar to those outside the world of soccer (or football, as it’s known internationally). Piqué, now 37 years old, is a former professional soccer player from Spain who played as a defender for FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team.
With a successful career spanning over a decade, Piqué won multiple championships, including:
- The 2010 FIFA World Cup with Spain
- The 2012 UEFA European Championship
- Several La Liga and Champions League titles with Barcelona
He was one of the most celebrated defenders of his generation, earning millions both on and off the field. As of 2025, Gerard Piqué’s net worth is estimated to be around $80 million, thanks to his sports career, sponsorship deals, and business ventures.
How Did Shakira and Piqué Meet?
The love story between Shakira and Piqué began in 2010 when they met on the set of her iconic Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) music video. The song, which served as the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, featured cameos from several soccer stars, including Piqué, who played for Spain’s national team at the time.
Shakira later admitted in an interview with 60 Minutes in 2020 that she wasn’t much of a soccer fan and had no idea who Piqué was when she first saw him in the video. But something about him caught her eye.
“I wasn’t a soccer fan, so I didn’t know who he was,” Shakira said. “When I saw the video, I was like, ‘Hmm, that one’s kind of cute.’ And then someone decided to introduce us.”
According to Piqué, the relationship started when he casually texted Shakira about the weather in South Africa, where she had arrived early for the World Cup. Their conversations escalated, and Piqué even joked that Spain would have to make it to the finals for them to meet again—which they did, ultimately winning the tournament. Shortly after, in 2011, their relationship became official.
Their Family Life and Why They Never Married
Shakira and Piqué spent 11 years together and welcomed two sons:
- Milan, born in 2013
- Sasha, born in 2015
Despite being together for over a decade and raising a family, Shakira and Piqué never tied the knot. Shakira once explained her views on marriage, saying:
“To tell you the truth, marriage scares me. I don’t want him to see me as his wife. I’d rather him see me as his girlfriend. His lover, his forbidden fruit.”
Their unconventional approach to relationships made them one of the most talked-about celebrity couples for years. They appeared happy, often sharing glimpses of their family life on social media, but things eventually took a turn.
Why Did Shakira and Piqué Break Up?
In June 2022, after 11 years together, Shakira and Piqué announced their separation in a joint statement. They requested privacy, emphasizing that their focus was on the well-being of their children.
While neither publicly confirmed the reasons behind their breakup, rumors swirled. Spanish news outlet El Periódico reported that Piqué had allegedly been unfaithful, leading to their decision to separate. This theory gained traction as Shakira’s new music appeared to address themes of betrayal and heartbreak.
Songs like BZRP Music Sessions #53, which Shakira collaborated on with Argentine producer Bizarrap, featured sharp lyrics that fans believed were aimed directly at Piqué:
“You traded a Ferrari for a Twingo. You traded a Rolex for a Casio.”
The track became one of the biggest Latin hits of 2023, racking up millions of streams worldwide.
Shakira’s Musical Comeback: Turning Heartbreak Into Hits
While heartbreak can be devastating, Shakira turned her pain into power. Her album Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran (translated as Women No Longer Cry) is filled with empowering anthems, and it’s no surprise that it has been nominated for Best Latin Pop Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards.
Her ability to channel personal experiences into music has resonated deeply with fans. Collaborating with Cardi B on “Puntería”, she continues to prove that she’s still at the top of her game.
What’s Next for Piqué?
Since retiring from professional soccer in 2022, Piqué has focused on business ventures, including his company Kosmos, which deals in sports and media investments. He’s also been making headlines for his new relationship with Clara Chía Martí, a 24-year-old PR student.
Despite moving on, his past with Shakira will always be part of his legacy—especially since her music ensures that the world won’t forget the breakup anytime soon.
A Love Story Turned Into Pop History
Shakira and Piqué’s love story had all the elements of a fairytale, but like many high-profile relationships, it ended in controversy and speculation. While their romance may be over, the music it inspired continues to dominate charts and awards shows.
As Shakira stands on the Grammy stage in 2025, nominated for her latest work, one thing is clear: she’s not just surviving post-breakup—she’s thriving. And with two sons, an unstoppable career, and legions of fans cheering her on, she’s proving that Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran—they rise.