Shakira has given birth to a baby boy

The 35-year-old Colombian singer and her 25-year-old footballer boyfriend Gerard Pique welcomed their son Milan Pique Mebarak into the world in Barcelona, Spain on 22.01.13, according to People En Espanol magazine,

Shortly before giving birth Shakira asked her fans to pray for her after she was admitted into the Teknon clinic, where she was scheduled to be induced.

The `She Wolf` singer - whose full name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll - appealed to her fans via Twitter, writing: "I`d like to ask you all to accompany me in your prayers on this very important day of my life. Shak"

She also posted the same content in Spanish and was immediately inundated with messages of support from her fans across the world, wishing her good luck.

A source previously told Spanish newspaper La Razon that the couple scheduled the birth so that FC Barcelona footballer Gerard could be present during their baby`s arrival.

The insider also revealed that the singer had requested a female only medical team, who all signed confidentiality agreements, assist her during the birth.

The blonde beauty was said to be feeling "increasing discomfort" ahead of the arrival of her son and was complaining of "abdominal pressure."

The `Loca` has been dating soccer player Gerard for around two years and previously said he is the "best thing" to ever happen to her, until she got pregnant.

She said: "This man is the best thing that could have happened in my life. And now the baby!"
Shakira only confirmed their relationship last year by posting a picture of them both together on Twitter and Facebook with a caption reading, "I present to you my sunshine." in Spanish.

Last week the couple invited fans to join them at their virtual baby shower, where they can purchase essential baby gifts that will support UNICEF and benefit some of the world`s most vulnerable babies.

sections: Celebrities