Zayn Malik Claims He’s Never Been in Love, Even With Gigi Hadid

Zayn Malik, the former One Direction star, has offered a surprisingly candid assessment of his past relationships, including his highly publicized romance with model Gigi Hadid. In a recent appearance on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, Malik stated he doesn’t believe he was ever truly “in love,” even with Hadid, the mother of his five-year-old daughter, Khai.

The conversation, which unfolded with host Alex Cooper, revisited a claim Malik initially made in 2024 on “The Zach Sang Show.” When pressed on whether he stood by that earlier statement, Malik elaborated on his evolving understanding of love. “Because my understanding of love is always developing,” he explained. “At that moment in time, I might have thought it was love, but as I got older, I realized maybe it wasn’t. Maybe it was lust. Maybe it was this, maybe it was that. I don’t feel like it was love.”

Despite questioning the nature of his past feelings, Malik was quick to emphasize his enduring affection and respect for Hadid. “I will always love G, because she’s the reason my child is on this earth,” he said. “I have the utmost respect for her. I will always love her, but I don’t know if I was ever in love with her.” This distinction, he suggested, is crucial to understanding his personal growth and perspective.

Malik and Hadid’s relationship spanned from 2015 to 2021, a period marked by intense media scrutiny and a devoted fanbase. Their daughter, Khai, was born in September 2020. The couple ultimately announced their separation in 2021, a split that was followed by a public incident involving an altercation between Malik and Hadid’s mother, Yolanda, at their Pennsylvania home. Yolanda alleged that Malik had struck her, a claim that led to legal proceedings.

The singer’s recent comments arrive as he reflects on his experiences with relationships and his current outlook on life as a single parent. He indicated a sense of liberation in being unattached, stating he doesn’t find being alone “scary.” “No disrespect to all the past relationships I’ve been in,” Malik added, “it was freeing. I am that type of person who runs on my own clock, answers to myself…”

Malik’s reflections on his relationship with Hadid are particularly noteworthy given the public’s investment in their romance. The pair were often considered a “power couple” in the entertainment industry, and their breakup was widely reported. His current assessment challenges the narrative of a passionate love story, suggesting that what he once perceived as love may have been something different – a realization he attributes to personal maturation.

The timing of these comments is also significant. Hadid has been dating actor Bradley Cooper since 2023, a relationship that has garnered considerable attention. While Malik did not directly address Hadid’s current relationship, his statements offer a glimpse into his own emotional landscape and his evolving understanding of love and connection.

Malik’s willingness to openly discuss his past relationships and his evolving views on love represents a shift in his public persona. He has previously been reticent to discuss the details of his personal life, but his recent interviews suggest a desire for greater transparency and self-reflection. This willingness to be vulnerable could resonate with fans and offer a more nuanced understanding of the artist beyond his public image.

The singer’s comments have sparked conversation online, with many reacting to his candid assessment of his relationship with Hadid. While some have expressed surprise or disappointment, others have praised his honesty and willingness to challenge conventional notions of love. The discussion highlights the complexities of relationships and the subjective nature of emotional experiences.

Malik’s statements are a personal reflection on his own journey and his evolving understanding of love. While his comments may challenge the public’s perception of his past relationship with Gigi Hadid, they also offer a glimpse into his personal growth and his current outlook on life. His willingness to share his thoughts so openly marks a new chapter in his public narrative.