Mike Tindall has “proven his loyalty” to Prince William with key moves, according to a royal insider.
The Prince of Wales, 42, has maintained a close bond with his cousin Zara Tindall, 43, since childhood.
Since Prince Harry quit the Royal Family in 2020, it has been reported that Zara and her rugby star husband Mike Tindall have developed a “brotherly” relationship with William.
Speaking to Woman’s Day magazine, a royal insider said: “Mike has become a key figure in William’s world and someone he can always rely on.”
Prince William and Mike Tindall are known to be very close
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The insider suggested that Mike’s efforts do not go unnoticed, with Prince William making sure to show his gratitude.
They added: “Mike has proven how loyal he is and William knows he has his back.
“He’s so grateful to have him by his side.”
Their brotherly connection was made even more clear when Mike revealed his playful nickname for William, while he was appearing on fellow rugby star Rob Burrow’s podcast last year.
Prince William previously joked that Mike Tindall ‘apologised’ after revealing his nickname is ‘One Pint Willy’
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He said: “The Prince of Wales is known to me as One Pint Willy because he’s not the best of drinkers,” he said, before adding: “Oh my God. It’s out there now. Sorry, Sir.”
Following the closeness in his relationship with William, it seems that Mike has also made a concerted effort to form an uncle-like bond with the Waleses’ eldest child, Prince George.
He was pictured sharing an affectionate moment as the royals came together for Christmas in 2023.
Body language expert, Darren Stanton, told Hello at the time:”[Mike is] demonstrating he has very much a hands-on sort of relationship here.
Prince William and Kate appearing on Mike Tindall’s rugby-themed podcast in 2023
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Mike Tindall supporting Prince William at a Buckingham Palace garden party last year
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“It’s clear that Mike isn’t averse to getting stuck in thanks to years of playing physical sports.”
He added: “It’s in Mike’s nature to be hands-on.
“While it’s clear from George’s reaction that he’s trying to play it cool, you can see he and his ‘uncle’ have a very fun dynamic between them.”
