The National Rugby League (NRL) has announced that American singer Teddy Swims will headline the entertainment for the 2025 NRL and NRLW Grand Finals. The announcement was made with a playful jab at the Australian Football League (AFL) by Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chairman Peter V’landys, following the AFL’s controversial choice of rapper Snoop Dogg for their grand final entertainment.
Teddy Swims, a Grammy-nominated artist known for his “nine-time platinum hit” ‘Lose Control’, has amassed nearly 4 billion streams globally. He also holds the record for the longest-running song on the Billboard Hot 100, remaining on the charts for over 100 weeks since its release.
NRL’s Entertainment Strategy and AFL’s Response
During the NRL’s announcement, V’landys humorously criticized the AFL’s decision, referring to Snoop Dogg with a quip on The Today Show. “We saw what the FLA got – what’s he called, Labrador or Poodle,” V’landys remarked. “I’m not sure – all I know is that it is a dog act. So we had to get better than that. We actually got a vocalist. None of this doof, doof stuff. This bloke can actually sing.”
Meanwhile, AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon defended their choice, emphasizing the diverse appeal of Snoop Dogg despite the backlash. The AFL’s decision sparked debate among fans and commentators, highlighting the contrasting approaches of the two leagues in engaging audiences through entertainment.
Teddy Swims: A Global Star with Local Appeal
Teddy Swims expressed his enthusiasm for performing in Australia, a country he regards as a second home. “I am so excited to be performing at the 2025 NRL Grand Final. Australia has always been a second home to me,” Swims stated. “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.”
NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo echoed these sentiments, praising Swims as the “perfect” choice for the grand final. “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.”
Entertainment and Sports: A Strategic Blend
The decision to feature Swims aligns with the NRL’s broader strategy to enhance its global presence and appeal to younger demographics. By integrating high-profile music acts with sporting events, the league aims to create memorable experiences that resonate beyond the traditional sports audience.
“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.” – Andrew Abdo, NRL Chief Executive
Looking Ahead: The Future of Sports Entertainment
The NRL’s choice of Teddy Swims and the AFL’s selection of Snoop Dogg reflect a growing trend of incorporating diverse entertainment elements into sports events. This approach not only broadens the appeal of these events but also enhances the overall fan experience, potentially attracting new audiences to the sport.
As both leagues continue to innovate in their entertainment offerings, the competition between the NRL and AFL extends beyond the field, influencing how sports and entertainment intersect in Australia and globally. The upcoming grand finals will serve as a litmus test for these strategies, providing insights into the evolving landscape of sports entertainment.
With Teddy Swims set to headline the NRL Grand Final and help promote the league’s Las Vegas fixtures next season, the NRL is poised to captivate audiences with a blend of athletic prowess and musical excellence. As the event approaches, fans and industry observers alike will be watching closely to see how these entertainment choices impact the leagues’ standings in the eyes of the public.
