NFL fans were left outraged by the rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner before Sunday’s international game in Madrid.
Ahead of kickoff on 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.
Nevertheless, 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 decorate 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 not one of the players kneeling in the course of the anthem (at the very least on camera),” one user boldly questioned.
“The outfit was a bit inappropriate but her voice was beautiful,” one other wrote.
“Why is she dressed like a cabaret dancer? Takes away all solemnity from the anthem,” one other added.
“Who dresses like that to sing a national anthem. Zero home training. Shame,” said one other
Though some thought Pasian’s wardrobe missed the mark, the bulk applauded her outstanding performance of the national anthem.
“Not many individuals can sing that song well. She knocked it out of the park. Great job. Find it irresistible,” one user commented.
“cool seeing her get that highlight in madrid, first nfl game there needed a moment like that. anthem sounded clean and the gang locked in instantly,” one user commented.
“Bringing her powerhouse vocals across the Atlantic … Karina Pasian,” wrote one other.
“Historic game, historic vocals. She delivered!” one other added.
Pasian — a Latest 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 shocking extra time win.
At just 13, Pasian caught the attention of major record labels, including Def Jam, Interscope, and Bad Boy, and eventually signed with Def Jam in 2006.
Her profession features a Grammy nomination for “Can’t Find the Words” within the Best Contemporary R&B category and a 2007 performance on the White House for President George W. Bush during Black Music Month.
