One Direction Thanks Zayn Malik After Winning Top Duo/Group At Billboard Music Awards 2015

We can hear the sounds of One Direction fans crying tears of joy now! Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Liam Payne gave a shout out to Zayn Malik, the former member of the beloved band, during the 2015 Billboard Awards on Sunday night.

After winning the award for Top Duo/Group, the singers made sure to not only give a “massive thank you” to their fans for their support during their acceptance speech, but to also acknowledge the missing musician.

“There’s one more person to share this with,” Payne said. “And that’s our brother Zayn.”

Malik, who wasn’t in attendance during the award show, officially left One Direction in March. He revealed in a statement that he would no longer collaborate with the band or perform future tours with the pop sensation.

“My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I’d like to apologize to the fans if I’ve let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart. I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight. I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world,” Malik said in a statement after leaving the group.

One Direction won the coveted Billboard Music award against 5 Seconds of Summer, Florida Georgia Line, MAGIC! and Maroon 5.

For information on the Billboard Awards live stream click HERE. For a full list of 2015 nominees click HERE.