Legendary pop star celebrates 40 years in music and delivers electrifying medley at UBS Arena
Ricky Martin made history at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, taking home the inaugural Latin Icon award on Sunday, September 7, at New York’s UBS Arena. The honor, presented by Jessica Simpson, celebrates Martin’s decades-long impact on Latin music and global pop culture.
“Thank you so much for your love, I don’t even know where to start,” Martin, 53, said on stage. “This is very simple. This is for you all… I am addicted to your applause. That’s why I keep coming back. It’s you, not only here in America, but all of the world.”
In a heartfelt moment, Martin dedicated the award to his four children: 17-year-old twins Matteo and Valentino, 6-year-old daughter Lucia, and 5-year-old son Renn. “Everything I do, I do it with you in my mind and in my heart,” he said, emphasizing the inspiration his family provides.
The Puerto Rican-born superstar also treated audiences to an energetic medley of his greatest hits, performing classics such as Livin’ la Vida Loca, Pégate, Shake Your Bon-Bon, Vente Pa’ Ca, María, and La Copa de la Vida. The performance showcased Martin’s enduring charisma and ability to unite fans across generations.
Hosted by LL Cool J, the 2025 VMAs featured a star-studded lineup, including performances by Lady Gaga—her first in five years—Sabrina Carpenter, Sombr, Alex Warren, J Balvin featuring DJ Snake, Post Malone, Doja Cat, Jelly Roll, Conan Gray, and Tate McRae. Special honorees Mariah Carey and Busta Rhymes also took the stage.
Presenters for the evening included Ashlee Simpson, Ciara, Drew Barrymore, Livvy Dunne, Brittany Snow, Malin Akerman, Meg Stalter, Nikki Glaser, Paris Hilton, Ice Spice, Latto, and the Netflix fictional K-pop group Huntr/x, consisting of EJAE, REI AMI, and Audrey Nuna.
Reflecting on his 40-year career, Martin expressed gratitude for the enduring support of fans worldwide. “We just want to unite countries, we just want to break boundaries, we just want to keep music alive,” he said, a fitting sentiment as he accepted one of the most meaningful honors of his illustrious career.
The 2025 MTV VMAs aired live on CBS and MTV and streamed on Paramount+, celebrating music, culture, and groundbreaking performances from around the globe.
