Australian sports stars Mary Fowler and Nathan Cleary have recently garnered attention for their burgeoning relationship, which intertwines the worlds of international soccer and rugby league. Fowler, a 21-year-old forward for Manchester City and a standout player for the Matildas, and Cleary, a 26-year-old halfback for the Penrith Panthers, have been navigating a long-distance relationship since going public in April 2024.
In October 2024, following the Panthers’ NRL Grand Final victory, Cleary traveled to the UK to spend time with Fowler. The couple made a public appearance at the Super League Grand Final in Manchester, where Cleary was spotted wearing a Hull KR jersey in support of his former teammate, Tyrone May. During a halftime interview, Cleary addressed rumors about a potential move to the Super League, reaffirming his commitment to the Panthers until 2027.
Despite their demanding schedules, the couple has made efforts to support each other’s careers. Fowler, after scoring in a Women’s Super League match for Manchester City, shared a photo donning a Panthers jersey in the team’s dressing room, celebrating Cleary’s NRL Grand Final triumph. Cleary, in turn, has been present at several of Fowler’s matches, including a Matildas game in Perth where he was seen cheering from the
The relationship has sparked discussions about potential future moves. Penrith Panthers’ CEO, Brian Fletcher, suggested the possibility of Fowler returning to Australia to be closer to Cleary. However, Fowler’s burgeoning career in Europe, highlighted by her performances in the Women’s Super League and the Champions League, indicates her commitment to remaining abroad.
Both athletes have expressed a desire to maintain privacy regarding their personal lives, focusing on their respective sports. Cleary has mentioned the importance of controlling what they can and not being overly concerned with public attention.
As of February 2025, Cleary is undergoing a four-month recovery following shoulder surgery, aiming to be fit for the Panthers’ season opener against the Cronulla Sharks in Las Vegas on March 1, 2025. Fowler continues to excel with Manchester City, contributing significantly in both domestic and European competitions.
Their relationship exemplifies the balance between personal commitments and professional responsibilities, with both athletes supporting each other’s careers while pursuing their individual goals.
