Miss USA has apologised for making comments about her fellow Miss Universe contestants' English language skills, admitting what she said could have been "perceived as not respectful" after people described the quotes as racist.
In a live Instagram video — which also featured Australia's entrant Francesca Hung — Sarah Rose Summers discussed the English ability of Miss Vietnam and Miss Cambodia, and how the experience would be "so isolating and … just so confusing all the time".
"[Miss Vietnam H'Hen Nie] pretends to know so much English and you ask her a question after having a whole conversation with her she goes … " Ms Rose Summers said before nodding and laughing in the now-expired clip.
"Miss Cambodia [Nat Rern] is here and doesn't speak any English and not a single other person speaks her language.
"Could you imagine? Like Francesca said, that would be so isolating and I said yes, and I mean, just so confusing all the time."
She was sharply criticised online, with social media users describing the comments as mocking, bigoted or racist, and others saying they were an example of xenophobia.
The self-described "imperfect woman serving our truly perfect God" posted an apology on Instagram after describing the pageant as "an opportunity for women from around the world to learn about each other's cultures, life experiences, and views".
"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," Ms Rose Summers said.
"My life, friendships, and career revolve around me being a compassionate and empathetic woman.
"I would never intend to hurt another."
Her post attracted scores of comments, the majority of which were supportive and accepting of her apology.
"I know you're a good Christian woman and you don't intend to be mean to anyone," one Instagram user posted.
"I am Vietnamese fan. I know that everything is just misunderstanding," another said.
Ms Rose Summers said she was "grateful for opportunities" to speak with Miss Cambodia and Miss Vietnam "about this experience".
"These are the moments that matter most to me," she said.
