When American pop singer Karina Pasian stepped onto the field at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium to perform the Star-Spangled Banner, she likely expected people to focus on her voice—not her wardrobe. But during the NFL’s first-ever game in Spain, the 34-year-old Grammy-nominated artist found herself at the center of an online backlash over her outfit.

Pasian, who is originally from New York City but now lives in Madrid, was selected to sing “The Star-Spangled Banner” ahead of the historic matchup between the Washington Commanders and the Miami Dolphins. After her performance, the Madrid Marine Infantry Group Band followed with the Spanish national anthem.

It was intended to be a meaningful moment that brought together fans, nations, and the love of the game. But instead, many online comments zeroed in on what Pasian wore: a black mini dress with a deep cowl neckline, thigh-high stockings, garters, and long opera-length gloves. Some viewers felt the look was distracting for such a solemn moment.

Madrid-based vocalist Karina Pasian sings the U.S. National Anthem for the first-ever NFL game in Spain. pic.twitter.com/vIhnBFq4sA

— NFL (@NFL) November 16, 2025

“Nice, but why did she have to dress like a hooker?” one commenter wrote under the NFL’s video on X.

Another added, “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.”

Others echoed similar concerns, saying the outfit felt out of place. “The outfit was a bit inappropriate but her voice was beautiful,” one user said. Another commented, “Why is she dressed like a cabaret dancer? Takes away all solemnity from the anthem.” Someone else added, “Who dresses like that to sing a national anthem. Zero home training. Shame.”

But not everyone saw it that way. In fact, the majority of commenters praised her incredible vocal performance and celebrated the moment for what it was—a historic first for the NFL and an opportunity to spotlight a talented artist.

“Not many people can sing that song well. She knocked it out of the park. Great job. Love it,” one fan wrote.

Another shared, “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.”

Others simply admired the gift God has clearly given her: “Bringing her powerhouse vocals across the Atlantic … Karina Pasian,” one said. Another added, “Historic game, historic vocals. She delivered!”

For Pasian, the moment adds to an already impressive musical journey. She first caught the attention of major record labels at just 13 years old, drawing interest from Def Jam, Interscope, and Bad Boy. She eventually signed with Def Jam in 2006. Her résumé includes a Grammy nomination for “Can’t Find the Words” in the Best Contemporary R&B category and even a 2007 performance at the White House for President George W. Bush during Black Music Month.

While some fans debated her outfit, most agreed that her voice—and the significance of the moment—deserved to shine. And on a global stage, Pasian delivered a performance that many won’t soon forget.