Prime Video’s latest documentary, “Married to the Game,” delves into the intriguing lives of WAGs (Wives and Girlfriends) in the football world, with a particular focus on Taylor Ward, the wife of acclaimed footballer Riyad Mahrez. Since its release on Friday, the documentary has offered viewers a candid look into the couple’s dynamic, featuring moments of intimacy, vulnerability, and revelation.
The documentary opens with a captivating sequence as Taylor Ward, a 26-year-old businesswoman, playfully challenges Mahrez by introducing herself under her birth name rather than the widely known identity of the 33-year-old winger.
A bemused Mahrez hesitates before stammering “Riyad,” setting the tone for the couple’s engaging interactions throughout the film.
One of the emotional peaks of the documentary occurs when Taylor Ward tearfully recounts the challenging episode of Mahrez’s transfer from Manchester City to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia.
Expressing her distress, she recalls receiving a sudden call from Mahrez while she was on the beach, informing her of the imminent move.
Riyad Mahrez never forgets… 😂
𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞, a new series following the partners of five Premier League footballers, is coming to Prime Video this Friday 📺 pic.twitter.com/SJeHcd200Q
— Amazon Prime Video Sport (@primevideosport) February 21, 2024
Overwhelmed by the rapid turn of events, she reflects on the lack of time to bid farewell to friends and family, conveying the emotional toll of the abrupt relocation.
Addressing the fears associated with the move, Mahrez, the captain of the Algeria national team, responds to concerns about potential isolation in the Arabian Peninsula, acknowledging it as an inherent part of the profession.
However, upon arrival, Taylor Ward admits that the reality was less daunting than anticipated, despite certain cultural differences and challenges such as gender-specific restrictions on facilities and alcohol consumption at home.
Her candid reflections provide a unique insight into the complexities faced by footballers and their partners in navigating the global landscape of the sport.
“Married to the Game” emerges as a compelling exploration of the personal and professional intricacies inherent in the lives of footballers and their significant others, offering audiences a nuanced understanding of the challenges and triumphs within this dynamic world.
For Riyad Mahrez, his move to Saudi Arabia was part of the game.
His partner Taylor voiced her concerns…
𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞 is streaming now on Prime Video 📺 pic.twitter.com/7k4OWcAVbP
— Amazon Prime Video Sport (@primevideosport) February 23, 2024