‘I never stopped loving you’: Avicii’s ex-girlfriend Racquel Bettencourt pays emotional tribute to her ‘beautiful angel’

Avicii’s ex-girlfriend Racquel Bettencourt has broken her silence to pay tribute to the late DJ in the wake of his death.

The Canadian model split from Avicii, real name Tim Bergling, in 2014 after dating for a year but said she “never stopped loving [him]”.

Bettencourt thanked the DJ for showing her what “true love feels like” and for helping to build “memories to last a lifetime” in an emotional Instagram tribute.

“My heart is broken,” she posted alongside a picture of Bergling kissing her head. “Tim, it feels like it was just yesterday when we were inseparable. We talked and laughed till sunrise. It was us against the world. Memories to last a lifetime.

“Through all of our ups and downs I wanted nothing more than to make sure you were healthy and happy and be there for you every step of the way. Give you life, something to look forward to, but the universe had different plans for us.”

Bergling had been battling with acute pancreatitis due in part to excessive drinking. He had his gallbladder and appendix removed in 2014.

Bettencourt said she “tried everything I could” to help the Levels hitmaker as he “struggled” with his health problems.

She continued: “The bond, and connection we shared was so pure and real, I don’t think it ever really truly broke. It has always been and will always be in my heart forever. It was far too soon for you, so gifted and so special. You were the biggest part of my life and played a huge role, I will forever cherish those moments. I just want you to know that I never stopped having love for you.”

She said she has found comfort in knowing that his music “touched the lives of billions” before finishing: “Rest In Peace beautiful Angel I will never forget you. Love Raqattack.”

Avicii was found dead, aged 28, in Muscat, Oman, on April 20.

Emily Goldberg, who is thought to have dated the star between 2011 and 2013, also posted tributes in the wake of the tragic news hailing him as her “closest confidante” and “best friend”.

His family paid tribute earlier this week to thank fans for “all the initiatives taken to honour Tim, with public gatherings, church bells ringing out his music, tributes at Coachella and moments of silence around the world”.

The cause of death is still unknown but police have confirmed that it was “not suspicious” after two post-mortems were carried out over the weekend.