Justin Trudeau breaks silence after controversial no-show: 'boyfriend duties call'

Justin Trudeau has revealed why he missed Canada's opening World Cup match, admitting that "supportive boyfriend duties" took priority as girlfriend Katy Perry took to the stage at the tournament's opening ceremony.

The former Canadian prime minister, 54, found himself at the centre of online criticism after opting not to attend Canada's first game of the international tournament, which is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Instead, Justin was in Los Angeles supporting Katy as she performed during the star-studded opening ceremony ahead of the United States' clash against Paraguay.

© Getty Images for Tribeca Festiva

Addressing the backlash on social media, Justin responded with his trademark humour. "Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call," he wrote on X. "But you know who I'm rooting for to take the Cup."

He accompanied the message with a Canadian flag emoji. Katy was among the headline performers at Friday's opening ceremony, which marked the first World Cup match held in the United States since 1994.

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The pop superstar performed her song Wonder before kick-off, joining a lineup that included Tyla, Future, Brazilian singer Anitta and BLACKPINK star Lisa.

Meanwhile, Canada's own opening celebrations took place in Toronto, where homegrown music legends Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette entertained fans ahead of the country's first match.

Justin and Katy were first linked in July 2025, with speculation about their relationship continuing for months before they officially confirmed their romance in December.

© Variety via Getty Images

Since then, the couple have gradually become more public with their relationship, regularly supporting each other's professional commitments.

The former politician's latest gesture appears to be another example of that support, even if it meant missing a major sporting moment for his home nation.

Justin was married to broadcaster Sophie Grégoire Trudeau for 18 years before the pair announced their separation in 2023. They share three children together.

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In January 2025, he also announced he was stepping down as leader of Canada's Liberal Party, bringing his nine-year tenure as prime minister to an end.

Katy's own love life has also been closely followed over the years. The singer was married to comedian Russell Brand between 2010 and 2012 before later becoming engaged to actor Orlando Bloom. The former couple share daughter Daisy Dove and announced their split last July.