Tyla Shines at FIFA World Cup: The Singer's Unforgettable Performance
Grammy-winning singer Tyla has opened up about her nerves and self-doubt before performing the South African national anthem at the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony on 11 June 2026.
Almost a No-Show
Tyla performed the national anthem backed by the celebrated Mzansi Youth Choir, but it almost didn't happen. In an interview on Big Boy's show, which aired on 24 July 2026, the South African star revealed that her first instinct when the offer came through was to decline. The sheer scale of the platform felt overwhelming at the time, and she feared that she wouldn't be able to deliver.
Imposter Syndrome and the Fear of Fainting
Tyla has admitted that she struggled with imposter syndrome, even after her major sweep at the 2024 MTV EMAs. She tearfully admitted, "I didn't think I would," and it's clear that these feelings of inadequacy lingered. As she stood before a global audience, right before Bafana Bafana's match against Mexico, Tyla had one mantra running through her head throughout the performance: "Please don't faint!" she kept reminding herself.
The Performance and Its Aftermath
Despite receiving limited screen time during the opening ceremony broadcast, the experience left Tyla hungry for more. Once she was done, she said, she immediately wanted to go back out and do it all over again – and she did. Days after the World Cup ceremony, Tyla carried that momentum to SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, where she performed alongside American rapper Future. The two artists took to the stage to debut their new collaborative track, Game Time, continuing what has clearly been a defining chapter in her still-young career.
Regretting the Decision
Tyla told Big Boy that she knew walking away from the World Cup performance would be something she would regret. The opportunity was unlike anything she had experienced before, and she ultimately chose to seize it. Her bravery paid off, as the performance left a lasting impression on the global audience.
The Path Forward
Tyla's experience at the World Cup has undoubtedly had a lasting impact on her career. With her confidence boosted and her skills honed, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for this talented singer. As she continues to push boundaries and break down barriers, one thing is certain: Tyla is here to stay.
Source: Briefly
