Zayn Malik has canceled an upcoming show due to his anxiety. The former One Direction singer, 23, was set to perform at the Autism Rocks Arena in Dubai Friday, October 7, but ultimately decided he wasn't ready. He made the announcement Tuesday, September 6.
"Dear fans, I have been working over the last three months to overcome my extreme anxiety around major live solo performances. I feel I am making progress but I have today acknowledged that I do not feel sufficiently confident to move forward with the planned show in Dubai in October," he wrote, via ticketing agent 117Live.
"I am assured that all tickets will be refunded," the "Pillowtalk" singer continued. "I am truly sorry to disappoint you. I hope to see you all soon. Thank you to all my fans who support me globally. With love and respect always, Zayn."
Back in June, Malik also pulled out of a performance at the Capital Summertime Ball in the U.K. over anxiety.
"Unfortunately my anxiety that has haunted me throughout the last few months around live performances has gotten the better of me," he tweeted at the time. "With the magnitude of the event, I have suffered the worst anxiety of my career."
Malik's girlfriend, Gigi Hadid, supported him amid the news. "Z – I’ve seen the battles you go through and the way you fight to get to a place that allows you to get up there for your fans," the model, 21, tweeted June 12. "Your bravery in those times makes me proud, but your honesty last night proved what you’re all about, being real. Human recognizes human. You made the best of the situation and have given your fans an opportunity to understand you better as a performer. Those who can find compassion now are the ones that deserve to watch you continue to grow."
