Mike Tindall, former England rugby player and husband to Zara Phillips, Princess Anne’s daughter, has recently shared his thoughts on what he would do if ever offered a royal title.
The couple, widely regarded as two of the most popular royals, have had a unique journey within the royal family.
But despite their prominence, Mike made it clear that he has no desire to become a “prince.”
Mike Tindall’s Clear Stance on Royal Titles
Mike, now 46, was asked during an interview at a charity fundraiser for Debra whether he would accept a royal title. His response was firm: “I would definitely turn that down.”
It’s clear that the former rugby star isn’t interested in adopting a title that comes with the pressure and expectations often associated with royal life.
While Zara and her brother Peter Phillips weren’t given royal titles at birth, this was due to a decision made by Princess Anne. According to royal tradition, only a father can pass on a royal title, meaning that the daughters of Prince Andrew, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, were granted titles.
However, exceptions have been made in the past, as seen with Princess Margaret’s children, Viscount David Linley and Lady Sarah.
Despite this, neither Zara nor Mike holds an official royal title, and Mike doesn’t seem bothered by that.
Life in the Royal Family: Easier Than Expected
In the same interview, Mike reflected on his journey into the royal family and admitted that it was “easier than it could have been.”
One of the factors that helped him bond with his new family was their shared love of sports.
He recalled that both Prince William and Prince Harry attended many of his rugby games, and through them, he got to meet other royal family members, including Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice, and even the late Queen Elizabeth II.
“They were always good at making me feel at ease,” Mike said.
A Merry Time at Cheltenham Festival
Recently, Mike attended the Cheltenham Festival, where he made a jovial appearance, expressing that “the Guinness is still flowing.”
Despite a challenging week for punters, with many favorites being toppled, Mike remained in good spirits.
He and Zara were seen together at the event, looking as happy as ever and sharing moments of affection.
The Royal Family in Private: No Downton Abbey Life Here
Mike has often shared insights into what life is really like behind the royal façade.
In his book The Good, the Bad & the Rugby – Unleashed, co-authored with fellow rugby stars James Haskell and Alex Payne, he discussed what it’s like to spend time with the royal family.
Mike clarified that, contrary to popular belief, their life isn’t like the extravagant dinners seen in Downton Abbey.
Instead, he described more relaxed moments like watching TV with the late Queen Elizabeth and enjoying picnic lunches in the Scottish Highlands.
Mike recalled a particularly special image of his daughter Mia sitting with the Duke of Edinburgh, capturing the essence of their family gatherings:
“Members of a very close family who loved each other dearly spending precious time together.”
Remembering Queen Elizabeth II and Family Bonds
Mike’s close relationship with the royal family, especially Zara’s side, is well known. In reflecting on Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, he noted the special connection Zara had with her grandmother, particularly over their shared love of horses.
He admitted that, despite the sadness, the family came together more than ever during that difficult time.
“I also have loads of regrets about not asking her so many more things,” Mike confessed, remembering the Queen’s incredible life and history.
He added that he would often feel nervous sitting next to her, thinking about all the moments she had witnessed in her life.
Mike and Zara’s Role as the ‘Glue’ of Their Royal Generation
Mike and Zara’s friendly, down-to-earth personalities have made them integral members of the royal family.
They are often referred to as the “glue” of their generation, helping to keep everyone together, no matter the circumstances.
A royal source once described them as being able to “take the family’s mind off the gravity of what is going on.”
Their close relationships with other royals, such as the Prince and Princess of Wales, and Zara’s strong bond with her cousins Beatrice and Eugenie, are also indicative of how well they mesh within the royal fold.
The couple even has a family WhatsApp group where they stay connected, exchange messages about events, and plan get-togethers.
The Good, the Bad & the Rugby: A Royal Perspective
Mike’s podcast The Good, the Bad & the Rugby has gained quite a following.
Through the podcast, he has had the chance to interact with various members of the royal family, including Princess Anne and the Prince and Princess of Wales.
His new book, co-written with his co-hosts, reflects on the highs and lows of their four-year podcast journey, sharing humorous and heartfelt stories from their time in the royal spotlight.
Whether he’s sharing memories of picnics with the royal family or revealing his decision to turn down a royal title, Mike Tindall continues to offer fans a glimpse into the life of one of the most loved members of the royal family.
