Madonna beats Taylor Swift in MTV awards showdown

Taylor Swift and Madonna at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs). ( Getty Images: Todd Williamson/CBS )

Link copied Share Share article A battle between a 68-year-old pop icon and the most powerful woman in entertainment has ended in favour of the veteran at the MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles on Monday morning Australian time.

Madonna took home three trophies, including Artist of the Year, while Taylor Swift left with two, though one of them was the night's biggest prize.

Madonna led the nominations for the first time in 28 years, her 13 nods pipping Swift's 11.

Sabrina Carpenter joined Madonna to open the show with a version of Bring Your Love, their duet from Madonna's 2026 album Confessions II, which later won the Best Collaboration award on the night. Charli XCX then emerged to perform their track Danceteria Afterhours.