London has become a backdrop for Nathan Cleary as he balances his aspirations for fatherhood with his thriving rugby league career. The Australian rugby league star, known for leading the Penrith Panthers to four consecutive premierships, recently expressed his longing to start a family with his partner, Mary Fowler, who is making waves as a key player for the Matildas.
In a candid conversation on the Keegan and Company podcast, Cleary shared, “That’s probably my biggest goal in life – to one day be a father.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by their respective sporting commitments, stating that while the dream remains alive, it is currently on hold. “We’re both in the middle of our sporting journeys and enjoying that,” he said.
Fowler has also articulated her desire to raise a family, even contemplating the possibility of adoption. This vision includes a home filled with animals and a garden, reflecting a nurturing environment for their future children. Yet, the reality of their busy schedules, combined with competing at high levels in different parts of the world, complicates this dream.
While in London, Cleary’s presence is highlighted through promotional images, but he finds himself often identified as “Mary’s boyfriend” rather than the star athlete he is. He humorously recounted an encounter where someone expressed more admiration for Fowler than for him, saying, “I was like, ‘yeah, same.’”
Despite the attention surrounding their relationship, Cleary has expressed discomfort with the media scrutiny. He remarked, “It’s annoying at times,” reflecting on the adjustment required to navigate public interest in his personal life. Both Cleary and Fowler have agreed to maintain their privacy, focusing on their individual careers without letting the spotlight overshadow their relationship.
As Cleary prepares for the Ashes series opener in London, he also faces a critical juncture in his professional life. He is set to enter free agency in 2027, leaving open the possibility of exploring new opportunities. “I’ve loved my time in Penrith, and it’s home to me,” he noted, while remaining open to the idea of change.
The looming presence of the PNG Chiefs, who are set to join the NRL in 2028, adds another layer of complexity to his future decisions. While the prospect of playing closer to Fowler’s family roots in Papua New Guinea is intriguing, Cleary stated, “It’s still such a long way away,” emphasizing the uncertainties of where his career will take him.
Reflecting on his recent achievements, Cleary maintains that the end of the championship streak does not diminish his passion for the game. “I don’t ever feel like there’s a destination of ‘oh you’ve done it’,” he explained. Instead, he views each season as an opportunity for improvement and growth.
As he navigates the pressures of his sporting life alongside his aspirations for fatherhood, Nathan Cleary remains focused on what lies ahead. “Honestly, I don’t know what the future holds for me, but Penrith’s home for me,” he concluded, suggesting that while the future may be uncertain, his commitment to his roots and dreams remains steadfast.
