This evening, the New York New Jersey Stadium — better known to Americans as MetLife Stadium — will shine brighter than ever as it hosts the long‑awaited World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina. And before the first whistle blows, one of the most celebrated voices in American music will take center stage.

Jennifer Hudson, the acclaimed singer and actress, will perform the United States national anthem, The Star‑Spangled Banner, in front of hundreds of millions of viewers around the world. Her performance will serve as the emotional crescendo of a closing ceremony packed with global stars including Tom Cruise, Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, and Nicole Scherzinger.

From ‘American Idol’ to Hollywood royalty

Hudson first captured America’s attention in 2004 during Season 3 of American Idol. Despite finishing seventh, her extraordinary vocal power made her unforgettable — and the entertainment industry took notice.

Her true breakthrough came in 2006 with her film debut in Dreamgirls, where she starred alongside Beyoncé and Jamie Foxx. Hudson’s soul‑shaking performance of “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, a Golden Globe, and a BAFTA, cementing her status as one of the most gifted performers of her generation.

She later portrayed Aretha Franklin in the 2021 biopic Respect — a role the Queen of Soul personally chose her for before her passing.

A stage worthy of her voice

Hudson’s résumé includes unforgettable performances at the Super Bowl, major award shows, and most recently at the 2026 MLB All‑Star Game, where her rendition of America the Beautiful set the tone for the global spectacle to come.

According to FIFA, Hudson’s anthem performance will “set the foundation for the most important match in world soccer and the most anticipated moment of the tournament.”

And when she steps up to the microphone on the big day, her voice will frame one of the biggest moments in sports history — moments before Spain and Argentina battle for global glory.

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