NFL fans were left outraged by the rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner before Sunday’s international game in Madrid.
Ahead of kickoff at the international game between the Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium for the first-ever NFL game hosted in Spain, American pop singer Karina Pasian performed the US anthem, followed by the Madrid Marine Infantry Group Band’s rendition of the Spanish national anthem.
Pasian wore a black mini dress with a deep cowl neckline, paired with thigh-high stockings, garters, and long gloves that reached over her elbows during her performance.
However, the 34-year-old Grammy-nominated singer’s attire drew sharp criticism from NFL fans, who commented under a video of her performance posted on X by the NFL that Pasian’s outfit overshadowed her vocals.
“Nice, but why did she have to dress like a hooker?” wrote one commenter.
“Great to see the sharing of sport and competition with other countries!! Karina’s rendition of the US national anthem was lovely, but why is she dressed like a hooker? Also very refreshing to see none of the players kneeling during the anthem (at least on camera),” one user boldly questioned.
“The outfit was a bit inappropriate but her voice was beautiful,” another wrote.
“Why is she dressed like a cabaret dancer? Takes away all solemnity from the anthem,” another added.
“Who dresses like that to sing a national anthem. Zero home training. Shame,” said another
Though some thought Pasian’s wardrobe missed the mark, the majority applauded her outstanding performance of the national anthem.
“Not many people can sing that song well. She knocked it out of the park. Great job. Love it,” one user commented.
“cool seeing her get that spotlight in madrid, first nfl game there needed a moment like that. anthem sounded clean and the crowd locked in right away,” one user commented.
“Bringing her powerhouse vocals across the Atlantic … Karina Pasian,” wrote another.
“Historic game, historic vocals. She delivered!” another added.
Pasian — a New York City native now living in Madrid — was tapped to perform the anthem ahead of Sunday’s first-ever game in Spain. The Dolphins would beat the Commanders 16 – 13 in a stunning overtime win.
At just 13, Pasian caught the eye of major record labels, including Def Jam, Interscope, and Bad Boy, and eventually signed with Def Jam in 2006.
Her career includes a Grammy nomination for “Can’t Find the Words” in the Best Contemporary R&B category and a 2007 performance at the White House for President George W. Bush during Black Music Month.
