Lady Gaga Hat-Trick In Madrid

Lady Gaga scored three times at MTV’s European Music Awards in Madrid, winning the gongs for best pop act, female artist and song.

She wasn’t at the city’s Caja Mágica stadium Nov. 7 to receive the awards, but accepted them via satellite link from Budapest, Hungary, where she was performing on tour.

Justin Bieber also enjoyed a successful evening, taking home “the best push” and best male artist awards.

The event was hosted by “Desperate Housewives” star Eva Longoria and included live performances from acts including Rihanna, Kings of Leon and Miley Cyrus.

The 17th annual MTV EMAs unfolded in upbeat fashion with a carnival-style opening number by international superstar Shakira.

The 2010 EMAs broadcast also included footage of Katy Perry – winner of best video for “California Gurls” – and Linkin Park, which was performing a free gig across town at the 100,000-capacity Puerta de Alcalá. Linkin Park also took the best live act award.

MTV’s annual awards bash – held in Berlin last year – rolled into the Spanish capital over the weekend, with events including a “secret” gig by rock veterans Bon Jovi, which was joined on stage by Rihanna for their 1980s hit “Livin’ on a Prayer.” Bon Jovi took the MTV EMA Global Icon award.