Hands-on dad Mike Tindall can look forward to lots more time with his six-month-old daughter Mia following his decision to retire from rugby. Zara Phillips’ husband, 35, announced the news on Twitter on Monday, telling his followers: "After 17 years it’s time to retire from rugby. I have been lucky enough to play with/against some great players, two great clubs and had some amazing times.
Mike Tindall has announced his retirement from rugby
"Thank you to everyone who has supported me through my career. "Mike, who lives with Zara, 33, and Mia at Gatcombe Park, represented his country 75 times and played for top clubs Bath and Gloucester.In May, he made his final appearance on the pitch for Gloucester, and touchingly marked the occasion by bringing baby Mia on to the pitch.Both Mike and Zara have taken parenthood in their stride, juggling caring for Mia with their respective careers.
Mike Tindall carried baby Mia on to the pitch following his last game
"As Friday's child, Mia's supposed to be loving and giving," Olympian Zara told HELLO! in an exclusive interview to accompany the family's first photo shoot. "She's pretty relaxed and happy so far. She's cool, but then perhaps all parents say that. "Of course, little Mia has plenty of playmates. Zara's brother Peter Phillips has two children with his wife Autumn Phillips –Savannah and Isla – and the two families are often spotted spending time together.
Zara Phillips with her sister-in-law Autumn Phillips and baby Mia
And just recently, Mike spoke about Mia's first meeting with her cousin Prince George. "I don't think Mia will remember that day, she was two months old, but it was great, it was carnage ," the sports star told the Mirror." George was eating at the time. He'd got to that stage where more food goes on the table than in his mouth. Mia was just chilling and sleeping – she sleeps a lot, she's quite relaxed."