A source told the publication that Grande was driven to create an unforgettable concert experience to thank her fans for their unwavering support during a difficult 12 months.

“[It’s] something special for her fans as a way to thank them for being there for her through her highs and lows of the last year,” the insider revealed.

MOTIVATED: GRANDE REPORTEDLY WANTED TO THANK HER FANS WITH A SPECIAL SHOWSPLASHNEWS.COM

“With all of the focus on her personal life, Ariana has felt additional motivation to put on the best show possible to remind her critics and fans of her strengths as an artist and performer.”

Adding that the musician experienced the usual “opening night jitters” ahead of Monday’s performance, the source added: “Friends and family hope she can breathe a sigh of relief after such a great first night.”

“[She] is in a great place mentally and emotionally,” they said.

Grande previously described 2018 as “one of the worst years in [her] life,” following the death of ex-boyfriend Mac Miller and her split from fiancé Pete Davidson.

The Ariana Grande Relationship Retrospective

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She appeared to pay tribute to the late rapper, who she dated for two years, as she kicked off her tour, playing one of Miller’s songs before taking to the stage.

The star then opened the concert with Raindrops, a track which fans have speculated is about Miller.

After the performance, Grande wrote on Twitter: “My mind is all over the place and v emotional… tonight was too much. Thank you thank you thank you. I love you.”

The Sweetener world tour continues in Boston tonight.