Princess Charlene makes heartbreaking admission about 'feeling isolated'

Charlene said: "I walk, I cycle, I swim too, but not as much as before.

"I don’t practise swimming as intensely as in the past.

"When I was young, I trained very hard, I challenged myself physically. These days, it’s all about moderation."

Reflecting on her ambition and drive that has not dimmed since her professional days, Charlene admitted: "It can be quite difficult because my nature is to want to beat records, win medals and surpass my limits.

"But, at nearly 47 years old, I can no longer do that… my body won’t let me.

"My spirit and my heart might, but my body says no!"

Charlene, who has since launched the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation to prevent children from drowning, touched on how her life was consumed by the sport.

She continued to tell Gala Magazine: "I was first and foremost an athlete.

"I was training to take part in the Olympic Games. It was my goal.

"I sometimes felt a little isolated from other teenagers. Swimming took up all my time.

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"I devoted all my days, weeks, and years to being at the top of my game."

The royal frequently graced the cover of Sports Illustrated in her athletic swimwear and platinum blonde hair during her youth.

However, Charlene insisted she tries to "stay as young as possible".

She added: "I think you need to accept it [ageing]. Chasing after eternal youth is an illusion. I simply try and stay as young as possible in my body and in my heart."