‘I have a huge amount of respect for Gigi,’ writes Zayn Malik after breakup

Fans were shocked by the overnight news of Zayn Malik and Gigi Hadid deciding to part ways.

The couple had been one of the showbiz world’s most glamorous couples for 28 months.

Malik confirmed the reports in a tweet, saying they both had an "incredibly meaningful, loving and fun relationship".

The singer wrote on Twitter: "Gigi and I had an incredibly meaningful, loving and fun relationship and I have a huge amount of respect and adoration for Gigi as a woman and a friend. She has such an incredible soul.”

"We wish this news could have come from us first," the singer added.

About ten minutes later, Gigi tweeted her own statement, where she said she was "forever grateful" for the time they shared together.

"I want nothing but the best for him and will continue to support him as a friend".

A source close to couple revealed to The Sun Newspaper that Zayn, 25 and Gigi, 22, gradually drifted apart due in part to work pressures.

The source claimed that “they have crazy work schedules that would put pressure on any relationship.”

The former One Direction singer introduced himself to Gigi at a Victoria’s Secret party and asked her on a date during their first meeting. They began dating in November 2015. In January last year the pair sparked rumors they were engaged after Gigi was being pictured with a diamond band on her ring finger.