Shakira has spoken out about the heartbreaking end of her relationship with Gerard Piqué, describing the breakdown of their family as the "darkest moment" of her life. The Colombian singer, 49, has largely remained silent about the separation since announcing the end of her 11-year relationship with the former Barcelona footballer in 2022. The couple share two sons, Milan, 13, and Sasha, 11.
In a rare interview with The Times, Shakira revealed the devastating impact of the split, which occurred while her father, William Mebarak, was seriously ill in hospital after a severe fall. She said: "[I was living through] the darkest moment - when I saw the dissolution of my family. The family that I had dreamt to keep forever."
Despite the pain, the "Hips Don't Lie" singer believes the experience has made her stronger. She added: "I've been through so much pain, but it has made me perhaps in an unforeseen way a wiser person - or stronger, at least. It's amazing to learn that humans have a resilience that we can resort to at any moment in our lives."
However, Shakira made it clear that romance is not on the cards for now. She told The Times: "No romance for me for now. There's no space or time in my life for that. My plate is quite full. My kids are my priority. And my career. Strangely enough, I'm in love with my career like I've never been in my life. I'm enjoying my time alone as well."
Shakira and Gerard first met in 2010 while filming the music video for "Waka Waka," the official song of that year's FIFA World Cup. They became one of the most high-profile couples in entertainment and sports before confirming their separation in June 2022. At the time, rumours of infidelity circulated, though Gerard denied these allegations. Shakira hinted at betrayal in an interview with People en Español, saying: "Everything happened at once, my home was falling apart. I was finding out through the press that I had been betrayed while my dad was in the ICU."
Sources close to Gerard claimed he was unaware of the split until Shakira's public Instagram statement, which read: "We regret to confirm that we are parting ways. For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect their privacy. Thank you for your understanding."
Gerard quickly moved on with 24-year-old public relations student Clara Chia Marti. Sources also alleged that the couple had an open relationship for three years before the breakup. Despite everything, Shakira expressed gratitude towards Gerard for the family they built together.
