Mike Tindall reveals the sweet nicknames he and Zara use for each other

Mike Tindall has offered royal fans a rare and charming glimpse into his marriage to Zara Tindall, revealing the affectionate nicknames the couple use for each other away from the public eye.

The former England rugby star, who has been married to Princess Anne's daughter since 2011, spoke candidly about family life in a new interview with Woman & Home, giving an insight into their famously grounded and warm relationship.

Z, Mikey-T and Munchkin

When asked whether he and Zara use pet names for one another, Mike confirmed that they do.

"If it's nicknames, it's Z and Mikey-T," he told the publication.

But it was a third nickname that captured hearts most. The father of three also shared that he and Zara affectionately call each other "Munchkin" — a detail that further highlights the playful dynamic that has long made them one of the most relatable couples in the royal family.

The glue of the royal family

Known for their easy-going nature and infectious sense of humour, Zara and Mike have become firm favourites amongst royal watchers, with many describing them as the "glue" that helps hold the wider royal family together during difficult times.

The couple are parents to three children — Mia, 12, Lena, seven, and Lucas, five — and Mike readily acknowledges that juggling family life with work and public commitments is no small feat.

"It can be stressful," he admitted. "You're trying to do everything all at once, and that's hard. But you find a way. The whole point is to find a way and get it done while having fun at the same time. That's what we try to do anyway."

He added: "You've always got to see the funny side!"

A normal family life outside royal constraints

That philosophy is one royal fans frequently witness whenever the Tindalls step out together, whether cheering Zara on at equestrian events or attending race meetings around the country. The family are rarely seen without broad smiles on their faces.

Despite their growing number of public appearances, Zara and Mike have consistently prioritised giving their children as normal an upbringing as possible.

Unlike many members of the royal family, Zara does not carry a royal title — a circumstance that has afforded the couple considerable freedom to build a life largely outside the constraints of formal royal duties.

Instead, both have forged successful careers of their own whilst remaining closely connected to the wider royal family.

Mike hopes son Lucas will follow his sporting path

Mike has made little secret of his desire to pass his love of sport on to the next generation. Speaking to HELLO! in 2025 whilst attending a charity golf tournament, he revealed he had been encouraging all three of his children to take up golf.

"I think Lucas will be the one most into it," he said.