Former England centre Mike Tindall’s medals explained as England legend wears three at the Queen’s funeral today.
Some fans were confused by the 43-year-old wearing medals due to his lack of military service.
One Twitter user wrote: “Where did Mike Tindall get those medals from, masterchef?”
“The nerve of Mike Tindall sitting there with medals on, what are they for? Scrums and lineouts?” added another.
The 2003 World Cup winner was in fact wearing his OBE and his Diamond and Platinum jubilee medals, handed out in 2012 and 2022 respectively.
Tindall was awarded his OBE following the triumph against the Wallabies 19 years ago.
The 43-year-old, who is married to the late Queen’s granddaughter, Zara Tindall, shared his tribute to the Queen on Instagram last week.
Describing the Queen as an ‘amazing woman’, he said: “I can only say how kind they’ve been to me, and how welcoming they’ve been to me since joining the family.
“And how they’ve made my family welcome. I’ve always felt part of it and I think that’s down to what an amazing woman the Queen is. They’re a fantastic family.”
Five big-name rugby players you didn’t know are still playing
A number of veteran players are proving that age is just a number as they continue to play professionally into their late 30s and early 40s including a former England captain.
#1. Matt Giteau
- Age: 39
- Club: LA Giltinis (USA)
- Position: Centre, Scrum-half, Fly-half
- Honours: Australia
- Caps: 103 caps
The Wallabies legend has shelved retirement plans and will play on for the Los Angeles Giltinis as a 39-year-old.
“I was really content with the way things finished. It was such a super season to end up with a championship,” Giteau, who debuted for the Brumbies in 2001, said.
“My wife Bianca has changed her life to suit me many times but when she was keen and the kids were pumped for more of LA, it made the decision an easy one.”