Shakira Breaks Up With Longtime Boyfriend

Singer and Antonio de la Rue "have remained close" despite their separation after almost 11 years, she writes

By Natalie Finn Jan 11, 2011 3:20 AMTags
Shakira, Antonio de la RuaEthan Miller/Getty Images

Shakira is flying solo.

Though they denied the rumors last year, the Colombian crossover star and boyfriend Antonio de la Rúa have indeed split up after spending a decade together, she revealed today on her blog.

But it doesn't exactly sound as if they've gone their separate ways...

"During our almost 11 years together we have loved each other deeply, taken care of each other and stood by one another," Shakira wrote from France.

"They have been the most wonderful years of our lives, and thanks to that love and the respect that we share for one another we have been an exceptional couple and partners. However, since August 2010, we made a mutual decision to take time apart from our romantic relationship. Throughout this time we have continued to work together hand in hand, have remained close and have kept the details absolutely private until now.

"We view this period of separation as temporary and as a time of individual growth as we continue to be partners in our business and professional lives."

Shakira started seeing Rúa in 2000 and spent at least some of the oughts engaged. Last June, Latin media outlets started reporting that they had broken up, but the pair were still out and about in public enough to quell the rumors.

Among other deals, Rúa, an attorney and the eldest son of former Argentine President Fernando de la Rúa, helped Shakira negotiate a a recording and touring contract with Live Nation said to be worth between $70 million and $100 million.

"Antonio continues to oversee and conduct my business and career interests as he has always done," the "Hips Don't Lie" singer continued. "We move forward as partners, developing projects together, working hand in hand and in close communication. Our friendship and understanding of one another is unwavering and indestructible. We would like to advise that we will not be giving interviews or making more statements with respect to this matter and we appreciate in advance your understanding and respect during this sensitive time in our lives."

Shakira sounds pretty confident that whenever, wherever...they're meant to be together. We wish her the best.

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