Gigi Hadid is celebrating a major milestone in her daughter Khai’s life, and in doing so, she made a rare comment about her ex-partner Zayn Malik.
The 29-year-old model took to Instagram to share sweet photos and a touching tribute for her daughter’s fifth birthday, giving fans a glimpse into her life as a devoted mother while also addressing her co-parenting dynamic with the former One Direction singer.
Gigi Hadid’s Birthday Tribute to Khai
In the series of photos shared on Instagram, Hadid could be seen holding Khai close as they sat together in what appeared to be a peaceful, woodsy location. The mother-daughter duo shared an intimate moment on top of a rustic wooden structure, surrounded by simple yet thoughtful decorations.
Khai’s birthday celebration featured a homemade cake and playful touches that reflected Hadid’s down-to-earth parenting style. Hadid’s caption melted hearts across social media: “Celebrating you is the Best Day Ever, every year. Happy 5th Birthday to the light of my life! You are truly everything. So lucky & proud to be your mama!!!!!!! (p.s. 5 HOW?!?).”
Fans flooded the comments with birthday wishes for Khai, but one message in particular prompted Hadid to make a rare statement about her ex.
Gigi Mentions Zayn Malik
When a follower commented, “I wish her dad would also be there,” Hadid directly responded, clarifying that Zayn Malik was indeed present for their daughter’s special day. Her reply read: “She was with us both on her birthday!”
This rare acknowledgment of Malik delighted fans who have long speculated about the former couple’s co-parenting relationship. Though Hadid and Malik prefer to keep their family life private, her comment showed that both parents continue to play an active role in Khai’s life and celebrations.
Gigi and Zayn’s Relationship History
Hadid and Malik began dating in 2015, and their relationship quickly became one of Hollywood’s most talked-about romances.
Though they went through several breakups and reconciliations over the years, the pair welcomed daughter Khai in September 2020. In 2022, the couple split for good, but they have since focused on raising their daughter together.
Co-Parenting: How Gigi and Zayn Make It Work
In a Vogue interview, Hadid gave rare insight into how she and Malik manage co-parenting, emphasizing structure, flexibility, and respect.
“Zayn and I do our custody schedules months in advance,” she revealed. “That doesn’t mean that it doesn’t change here and there, but we help each other out and have each other’s backs.”
She admitted that raising a child in the public eye comes with challenges, but stressed that the focus remains on Khai’s well-being.
“There is the hard part of the world knowing this much, and thinking they know everything. What we are interested in is raising our daughter together, with so much respect for each other.”
Her comments highlight the positive dynamic she and Malik have built over time, choosing to prioritize their daughter’s stability over outside noise.
Gigi Hadid as a Mother
Since becoming a mom, Hadid has balanced her successful modeling career with her personal life, often giving fans small glimpses into motherhood through social media.
Despite her global fame, she has been intentional about shielding Khai from the spotlight, rarely showing her daughter’s face online and opting instead for subtle, heartfelt moments.
A Rare Look Into a Private Family
Though both Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik are known for being private, their fans are always eager for updates on how they co-parent their daughter. Hadid’s latest Instagram post not only celebrated Khai’s fifth birthday but also reassured fans that she and Malik remain united in their dedication to raising her in a loving environment.
