In a recent ITV documentary, former rugby union player Mike Tyndall, who gained royal status through his marriage to Zara Phillips, daughter of Princess Anne, shared intriguing insights about his life as a member of the royal family.

He also had a bold message for Meghan Markle, who married into royalty herself.

Tyndall and Zara exchanged vows in Edinburgh on July 30, 2011, and he opened up about the changes that occurred after their marriage during the brand new ITV1 and ITVX documentary, “Grand Slammers.”

The documentary follows nine members of England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup winning squad, including Tyndall, as they train a group of inmates in a men’s prison to compete against a team of Australian expat rugby players.

Tyndall spoke candidly about how his life transformed after marrying Zara, with whom he shares three children: Mia, Lena, and Lucas.

Although Zara and her brother Peter Phillips were not given royal titles by their mother, Princess Anne, they were still raised in the royal spotlight and participated in events such as Trooping the Colour and Christmas at Sandringham, traditions that they have continued with their own spouses.

Contrary to popular belief, Tyndall emphasized that marrying Zara did not exempt him from the need to work.

“Everyone thinks that just by marrying Zara that means it’s all fine and dandy, but that doesn’t stop the fact that you need a job, and it’s not that easy, you know,” he stated, according to Hello!

Magazine.

He further explained the challenges of transitioning from a rugby player to a non-athlete, saying, “I don’t think he can ever really describe when you’re so used to being around that many people and understanding because of it being ingrained into you, where you fit into then not being that person.”

Zara herself took about a year to figure out her new identity and path after leaving the equestrian world.

Tyndall expressed the difficulty of replacing the camaraderie and friendship he had with his teammates, stating, “You can never replace going to work with 35 of your best friends every day.”

In an apparent lesson directed at Meghan Markle, Tyndall highlighted the importance of not relying on the royal family for financial support and privileges without putting in the necessary work.

He cautioned, “Just because you’re royal by marriage or birth doesn’t mean you don’t have to work.”

This statement seems to reference Meghan’s desire for a life of luxury without fulfilling royal duties, which ultimately led to her and Prince Harry stepping back from their roles.

Tyndall compared Meghan’s situation to that of other prominent royals who took years to acclimate to their positions, such as Queen Letizia of Spain, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, Queen Elizabeth II of England, and the late Princess Diana.

These women, he noted, gradually acquired the poise and grace associated with royalty through years of experience and dedication.

Furthermore, Tyndall drew attention to Meghan’s rapid expenditure of her resources, likening her to a lottery winner who squandered her winnings in a short period of time.

He criticized her for blaming others and portraying herself as a victim despite her own actions leading to financial struggles.

In conclusion, the documentary featuring Mike Tyndall sheds light on the realities of marrying into royalty and the challenges that come with it.