Zayn Malik cancels show due to 'worst anxiety of my career'

LONDON, June 12 (UPI) -- British pop star Zayn Malik has apologized to fans for canceling a weekend show due to his crippling stage fright.

"To all those people who have been waiting to see me perform at the Capital Summertime Ball today..." Malik said in a statement he tweeted Saturday.

"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," continued the former member of One Direction.

"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."

His fellow recording artist Ellie Goulding was among those who voiced their support of Malik via social media.

"Anxiety is real... I know the feeling," Goulding tweeted.

"Thank you for your kind messages of support. It means a lot," Malik later posted.