Zayn Malik has issued an apology for pulling out of the Capital FM Summertime Ball at Wembley Stadium, blaming "the worst anxiety" of his career as the reason for the last-minute decision.
The Pillowtalk star was due to perform at the charity event on Saturday evening, which would have been his first live UK solo stage performance.
In a message posted on his Twitter and Instagram pages he apologised "to everybody I've let down" and explained that his anxiety about performing live "has gotten the better of me".
He said: "To all those people who have been waiting to see me perform at the Capital Summertime Ball today.
"I flew into the UK last night to appear in my home country in front of my family, friends, and most importantly my UK fans.
"Unfortunately my anxiety that has haunted me throughout the last few months around live performances has gotten the better of me ... with the magnitude of the event, I have suffered the worst anxiety of my career."
Malik added: "I cannot apologise enough, but I want to be honest with everyone who has patiently waited to see me.
"I promise I will do my best to make this up to everybody I've let down today. I know those who suffer anxiety will understand and I hope those who don't can empathise with my situation."
— zayn (@zaynmalik) June 11, 2016
Capital FM said in a statement: "We're very sorry we've just been told that due to illness Zayn will not be performing at today's show.
"We know everyone's already had a great day and enjoyed the 19 other huge artists' performances, but of course we're all gutted that Zayn's had to pull out tonight at the last minute."
The statement ended with Capital FM "wishing him better".
