Liam Payne: Sporting world pays tribute to ex-One Direction star

Many high-profile figures from the world of sport have paid tribute to Liam Payne following his death at the age of 31.

Tributes have poured in from the sporting world for Liam Payne after the former One Direction star passed away yesterday at the age of 31.

The singer is believed to have died after falling from the third floor in a hotel in Argentina. City ambulance service provider spokesman Alberto Crescenti said: “The alarm was raised at 5.04pm local time saying a person was lying in an internal patio at Casa Sur.

“At 5.11pm an ambulance arrived and the man was certified dead. Afterwards we found out he had been a famous singer. Unfortunately the injuries he had suffered as a result of the fall proved to be fatal. There was no possibility of resuscitating him.”

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The sporting world has been paying tribute to the deceased singer, with his boyhood club West Brom leading the way.

"We're shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Baggies fan and musician, Liam Payne," the club said.

"Our thoughts are with Liam's family, friends and loved ones at this tragic time."

A number of football personalities including Jack Grealish, Jill Scott and James Maddison have sent messages in honour of the 31-year-old.

"Awhhh no, this is so sad man!!,' wrote Grealish. 'So so sad!! RIP Liam Payne. We have to start being nicer to each other in this world man," wrote England international Jack Grealish.

"Rest in peace Liam Payne, thoughts are with Liam's family and friends at this unimaginable time," posted James Maddison.

"This is just heartbreaking xxx" wrote Lioness hero Jill Scott, who played alongside Payne at Soccer Aid last year.

In a statement released by Liam's family, they paid tribute to the singer, saying: "We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time."

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