By ISABEL BALDWIN, US ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR
Published: 09:29 EST, 19 November 2025 | Updated: 09:29 EST, 19 November 2025
Karina Pasian, the singer who performed the United States national anthem ahead of the NFL's international game in Madrid, has spoken out after she sparked controversy with her rendition.
The 34-year-old was granted the honor of singing the Star-Spangled banner at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium, the home of soccer team Real Madrid, in the Spanish capital before the Miami Dolphins' thrilling overtime win over the Washington Commanders on Sunday.
Yet, Pasian faced severe criticism as many NFL fans were left scandalized by her performance. It wasn't her vocals that were the issue but rather her choice of clothing.
The outfit drew ire on social media as users likened it to a 'stripper' or a 'dominatrix' as they deemed it disrespectful to the national anthem.
Following the backlash, Pasian has defended her risque look, claiming that the league office saw no issue.
'They approved my outfit a few days before,' Pasian told TMZ, 'It was all approved by the NFL.'
Karina Pasian has spoken out after her outfit to perform the national anthem drew ire
'They approved my outfit a few days before,' she added. 'It was all approved by the NFL. I loved my outfit!'
Pasian, who just released new single 'Solo Party,' insisted that she was blocking out the negative noise.
'It's about focusing on my journey and not allowing negativity and things to distract me,' she added.
On Sunday, the former Grammy nominee had worn a short black dress with a plunging cowl neckline, thigh-high black stockings and garters, and matching gloves that stretched over her elbows.
'Dressing a woman as a hooker to do the national anthem is a wild move,' one user wrote, while another added: 'Is the woman singing the National Anthem in Madrid a stripper? WOW.'
'Why can't we have a dignified performance of our National Anthem?' another furiously asked. 'I'm embarrassed by this morning's rendition! Sing the anthem and dress appropriately! It's NOT about you!!!!'
However, others took no issue with Pasian's outfit as they hailed her rendition as one of the best that they had heard.
NFL fans were furious over the performance of the national anthem before the Madrid game
Many hit out at Karina Pasian for her choice of clothing to perform in the Spanish capital
The former Grammy nominee wore a short black dress with a plunging cowl neckline, thigh-high black stockings and garters
'Karina Pasian Just performed National anthem for NFL game and sent chills of Patriotism! Best since Whitney Houston's performance. Bravo,' one user praised.
Pasian was born in New York City but is now based in Madrid, granting her the nod to perform the anthem ahead of this Sunday's game.
She was previously was nominated for a Grammy Award for her song 'Can’t Find the Words' in the category of Best Contemporary R&B.
In 2007, she also had the prestigious opportunity to perform at the White House during Black Music Month in front of President George W. Bush.