One Direction's Zayn Malik pays tribute to Liam Payne after 'butting heads' - 'I never got to say goodbye'

Zayn Malik has shared an emotional tribute to his former One Direction bandmate Liam Payne, who tragically died on Wednesday after falling from a hotel balcony in Argentina

Zayn Malik has opened up about the heartache he feels following the loss of his former One Direction bandmate Liam Payne, admitting he "never got to thank" him before his sudden passing.

News of Liam's devastating death broke on Wednesday night, leaving fans and fellow music stars in shock. The 31-year-old singer had been staying in Buenos Aires with his partner Kate Cassidy when he tragically fell from the third floor of a hotel building. Police are continuing to attempt to establish the circumstances surrounding his traffic fall.

Best known for his role in One Direction and later solo career, Liam became a global sensation in 2011, when the band was birthed from The X Factor under the guidance of Simon Cowell, alongside Louis Tomlinson, Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, and Niall Horan. In his tribute, Zayn spoke about Liam as an artist he respected and that the star couldn't "explain what l'd give to just give you a hug one last time."

READ MORE: One Direction star says he has 'lost a brother' in devastating statement

Taking to Instagram to express his grief, the Mirror reports Zayn shared: "Liam, I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me, I can't help but think selfishly that there was so many more conversations for us to have in our lives. I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life.

"When I was missing home as a 17 yr old kid you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were my friend and that I was loved. Even though you were younger than me you were always more sensible than me, you were headstrong, opinionated, and gave no f***s about telling people when they were wrong."

Zayn also confessed: "Even though we butted heads because of this a few times, I always secretly respected you for it. When it came to the music Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense. I knew nothing in comparison, l was a novice child with no experience and you were already a professional.

"I was always happy to know, no matter what happened on stage we could always rely on you to know which way to steer the ship next. I lost a brother when you left us and can't explain to you what l'd give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly. I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever, there is no words that justify or explain how I feel right now other than beyond devastated.

"I hope that wherever you are right now you are good and are at peace A and you know how loved you are. Love you bro."

Following the tragic news of Liam's untimely departure, One Direction issued a heartfelt statement about their devastating loss. His bandmates confessed they are "completely devastated" by the turn of events, stating: "The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever."

With heavy hearts, Louis, Zayn, Niall, and Harry signed off a touching note: "We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly.

"The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam."