**Title: Trudeau Faces Backlash for Skipping Canada Match to Support Katy Perry**
Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has sparked controversy after choosing to attend a USA World Cup match instead of supporting his own country's team during their opening game. Trudeau was present at the match in Los Angeles on Friday, where his girlfriend, pop star Katy Perry, performed, leading to criticism from Canadian fans.
In a social media post, Trudeau acknowledged the backlash, stating, "Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I'm rooting for to take the Cup," accompanied by a Canadian flag emoji. His comments came after he missed Canada's 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto, which took place earlier the same day.
The opening matches for the World Cup were held in Toronto and Los Angeles, with the Canadian game kicking off at 3:00 PM EDT and the USA match starting at 9:00 PM EDT. While in Los Angeles, Trudeau was seen on camera enjoying the game alongside Perry, who performed at the event. The couple was captured sharing affectionate moments in the stands, which further fueled the ire of some Canadian fans.
Critics took to social media to express their disappointment, with one user from Toronto labeling Trudeau’s absence a "slap in the face" to Canada. Others went as far as calling him a "traitor" and a "fraud," as clips of the couple enjoying their time together circulated online.
Perry's performance marked the opening of the first World Cup game in the United States, where she sang "Wonder," a track from her upcoming album. The choice of song was notable, as it is less known compared to her many hits like "Teenage Dream" and "Firework." In an interview with People Magazine, Perry explained her decision, stating that the song was "very fitting for the ceremonial song that I get to sing."
Trudeau and Perry have been publicly linked since July 2025, and they confirmed their relationship with an Instagram post in December of that year. Trudeau's personal life has been under scrutiny since his split from his wife, Sophie Grégoire, in 2023 after 18 years of marriage. The couple has three children together. Perry, on the other hand, was previously married to comedian Russell Brand from 2010 to 2012.
As the World Cup continues, the reactions to Trudeau's decision highlight the passionate sentiments surrounding national pride and the expectations placed on public figures. The incident has sparked discussions about the balance between personal relationships and public responsibilities, especially for someone who has held a prominent political position.
The unfolding events in the World Cup and the reactions to Trudeau's choices will likely continue to be a topic of conversation as fans rally behind their teams and express their views on social media platforms.