Michael Bublé has apologised after being branded ''sexist'' by outraged fans.

The 'Haven't Met You Yet' hitmaker insists he didn't mean to ''disrespect women or be insulting to any human being'' after posting a photograph of a woman wearing short shorts, captured by his wife, Luisana Lopilato, on his Instagram account..

Responding to the backlash, the 39-year-old singer said: ''I do not court controversy, but I realise that a photo that was meant to be complimentary and lighthearted has turned into a questionable issue.''

The Canadian star - who is currently on holiday in Miami with his wife and their 19-month-old son, Noah - sparked outrage when he shared the picture of himself standing in front of the mystery woman, with the caption: ''There was something about this photo lu took, that seemed worthy of Instagram. #myhumps #babygotback #hungryshorts #onlyinmiami #picoftheday #beautifulbum (sic)''.

But in a statement to UsMagazine.com, the 'Home' hitmaker added: ''It hurts me deeply that anyone would think that I would disrespect women or be insulting to any human being . . .I regret that there are people out there who found the photo offensive. That was not and is not my intention. Women are to be celebrated, loved, respected, honoured and revered. I've spent my life believing that and will continue to do so.''