The Miss Universe contestant from the United States has made a public apology after coming under heavy criticism for comments she made about Miss Vietnam and Miss Cambodia.
A live Instagram video clip was reposted online showing Miss USA Sarah Rose Summers discussing the English-speaking skills of the two women with Miss Colombia Valeria Morales and Miss Australia Francesca Hung.
Posters accused them of racial bullying and questioned their behaviour and qualifications to represent their respective countries.
Most of the talking on the clip comes from Ms Summers in response to a question about Miss Vietnam, H'Hen Nie.
"She's so cute and she pretends to know so much English, and you ask her a question and after having a whole English conversation with her, she goes...," Miss Summers said before smiling and laughing in what has been described as a mocking manner.
Ms Hung and Ms Morales gestured supportively at the remark, but also praised Ms Nie for being so elegant.
On Miss Cambodia Rern Sinat, Ms Summers said, "Miss Cambodia is here and doesn't speak any English. Not a single other person here speaks her language. Can you imagine?"
Media reported the live session occurred before the preliminary competition at Impact Arena in Nonthaburi province on Thursday.
Ms Summers later posted an apology and a photo showing the three hugging the two targets of their remarks.
It read: "We all come from different backgrounds and can grow alongside one another. In a moment where I intended to admire the courage of a few of my sisters, I said something that I now realise can be perceived as not respectful, and I apologise. My life, friendships, and career revolve around me being a compassionate and empathetic woman. I would never intend to hurt another. I am grateful for opportunities to speak with Nat, Miss Cambodia, and H'Hen, Miss Vietnam, directly about this experience. These are the moments that matter most to me."
