The Real Story Behind Prince William's College Nicknames

The internet loves a good royal rumor, and the claim that Prince William was called "P-Willy" in college is one that sounds just plausible enough to spread. But when you dig into the actual history of William's university years at St Andrews, a different story emerges—one that's somehow even more interesting than the myth.

The Privacy Pseudonym That Actually Worked

When Prince William enrolled at St Andrews University in 2001, he faced a unique challenge: how do you have a normal college experience when you're second in line to the British throne? His solution was brilliantly simple. Among friends, William went by "Steve"—a decidedly un-royal name that helped him blend in with other students. While he officially registered as "William Wales," the "Steve" nickname was his attempt at anonymity, though it was perhaps the world's worst-kept secret.

This wasn't just playful college banter. The agreement between the royal family and the British press included a media blackout on William's university life, allowing him some semblance of normalcy. The pseudonym was part of that protection strategy.

The Nickname Kate Actually Used

Here's where things get flirty. According to multiple reports, Kate Middleton—who would eventually become William's wife—had her own nickname for the prince during their university days: "Big Willy." This cheeky moniker reportedly made an appearance years later at the royal wedding in 2011, when Prince Harry incorporated it into his best man speech, much to the amusement of guests.

The nickname has since been retired from public use, but it remains a window into the playful dynamic between William and Kate during their courtship years. It's also a reminder that even future kings get embarrassing nicknames from their partners.

One Pint Willy and the Royal Tolerance Test

Fast forward to Prince William's adult years, and another nickname emerged—this one courtesy of Mike Tindall, husband to William's cousin Zara. Tindall revealed that William earned the moniker "One Pint Willy" because, in Tindall's words, "he is not the best of drinkers." Coming from a former rugby player where "a couple of beers being sunk quite often" is part of the culture, this was clearly good-natured ribbing.

William apparently took the teasing well, and Tindall later upgraded him to "Five Martinis Willy," claiming the Prince of Wales had improved his drinking tolerance. It's a humanizing glimpse into the royal family's private dynamics.

Why the Myth Persists

So where did "P-Willy" come from? It's likely a case of telephone game—a misremembered or fabricated detail that sounds believable because William did have "Willy" nicknames. The alliteration is catchy, and it fits the pattern of royal nickname informality.

But the documented nicknames are far more revealing. "Steve" shows his desire for normalcy. "Big Willy" hints at the intimate, teasing relationship with Kate. "One Pint Willy" reveals how his extended family keeps him grounded. These real stories are better than any myth—because they show a prince trying to be, as much as possible, just another person.