- American star to headline 2025 Grand Final entertainment
Footy fans have had a mixed reaction to the NRL naming American singer Teddy Swims as the headline act for Grand Final entertainment.
Swims, 32, had a big hit in Australia with his 2024 song Lose Control and is touring Down Under in October.
The singer and songwriter’s music has been streamed more than 8.7 billion times, he’s been nominated for a Best New Artist Grammy and several gongs at the MTV Video Music Awards, and he has almost nine million followers on Instagram.
‘I am so excited to be performing at the 2025 NRL Grand Final. Australia has always been a second home to me,’ Swims said in a statement.
‘Every time I am there I am overwhelmed by how welcoming the people are, I fall more in love with the culture, and just everything about it.
‘So, to be welcomed to perform one of the biggest nights in Australia is a huge honour.’
Grammy-nominated singer Teddy Swims (pictured) will headline this year’s entertainment for the NRL and NRLW grand finals
A lot of NRL fans have questioned the NRL’s selection of the American artist, claiming he’s not well-known enough to justify the decision
However, the announcement has divided footy fans, with many criticising the decision.
‘Is that Temu Post Malone?’ posted one social media user.
‘I’m sorry, who?’ replied another.
‘Teddy who? Only Teddy I know plays fullback at the Roosters,’ said a third.
‘Plenty of Aussie artists that fit the NRL vibe better than this,’ said another.
‘He’s no Snoop Dogg,’ replied another.
Other fans approved of the move from the NRL, saying that Swims was a welcome change.
‘This is an elite signing! This guy will be amazing!’ posted one X user.
The US artist has described Australia as ‘a second home’ to him
‘People should listen to this guy before talking s**t. dude can sing,’ said another.
‘43.8M monthly listeners People asking who? No the question is who are you,’ remarked a third.
Meanwhile, NRL boss Andrew Abdo described Swims as the ‘perfect’ artist to perform at Australian rugby league’s biggest game.
‘Teddy Swims is one of the most exciting music talents in the world, making him the perfect performer for the NRL Grand Final day,’ Abdo said.
‘Teddy’s global appeal and connection with young audiences in Australia, the US and around the world, matches our vision to grow Rugby League globally.
‘Grand Final day is a special event on the sporting calendar, capturing moments that last forever.
‘Including a fresh superstar like Teddy Swims alongside some of the best male and female athletes in the world will take the entertainment experience for sports fans to a whole new level.’
