Zayn Malik says he has “utmost respect” for Gigi Hadid after past love comments

Zayn Malik clarifies he respects Gigi Hadid despite past comments, opening up about love, coparenting, and growth

Zayn Malik is setting the record straight about his past remarks regarding ex-girlfriend Gigi Hadid, offering rare insight into their relationship and the evolution of his understanding of love. 

Speaking on the Call Her Daddy podcast, the singer emphasized that while his feelings may have been misunderstood, his respect for Hadid remains unwavering.

“I will always love Gigi because she’s the reason my child is on this Earth, and I have the utmost respect for her,” Malik said. However, he admitted that he is uncertain whether he was ever truly “in love,” explaining that his perception of love has matured over time.

ZAYN speaks on his relationship with Gigi Hadid:

“I will always love G, cause she is the reason my child is… you know…on this earth and I've the utmost respect for her. Umm I will always love her, but I don't know if I was Ever IN Love with her. pic.twitter.com/aHnQIIFuG1

— POP GOSSIP (@TheePopGossip) February 11, 2026

Malik’s clarification follows a 2024 interview in which he revealed he had “never” been in love, prompting speculation that he was referring to Hadid. Expanding on the comment, he noted that what he once believed was love might have been something different. “As I’ve gotten older, I realized maybe it wasn’t,” he said, adding that personal growth has reshaped his perspective.

The former couple dated on and off from 2015 to 2021 and welcomed their daughter, Khai, in September 2020. Malik also touched on their coparenting dynamic, sharing that they occasionally differ in parenting approaches but remain committed to providing the best life for their child.

He humorously recalled giving Khai nearly $700 after she lost her first tooth — a gesture that reportedly surprised Hadid. Malik acknowledged he sometimes “overcompensates” as a parent, driven by his desire to give his daughter opportunities he did not have growing up.

Despite their romantic split, Malik’s comments highlight a relationship grounded in mutual respect, shared responsibility, and continued personal growth.