Former rugby league star Matt Cooper is venturing into the world of dating again, appearing on the new season of "Aussie First Dates" following the breakdown of his marriage. Cooper, once crowned rugby league's sexiest player more than two decades ago, is seeking a meaningful connection after spending over 20 years with his former wife.
His television appearance began with a less-than-smooth blind date. Promotional clips reveal an initial awkward greeting involving a bungled cheek kiss that left both Cooper and his date scrambling. "That wasn't awkward, sorry," his date responded, laughing off the uncomfortable moment.
Further interaction saw the restaurant bartender reveal Cooper's past accolades, identifying him as the former "Sexiest Player in Rugby League." When asked if he had received the title, Cooper confirmed, "Twice," prompting nervous laughter. The bartender's subsequent request to take a photo of the pair was met with unimpressed silence from both Cooper and his date.
Cooper, 47, debuted a striking new look for his television appearance, sporting a shaved undercut with a long, braided ponytail. He spoke candidly about his return to dating after his 21-year marriage, noting that he has found being single for over two years to be beneficial but acknowledges the desire for companionship. "I think everyone needs someone, you know, in their life. That's a cool feeling, you know?"
His primary concern in finding a new partner is ensuring their interest is in him as a person, not his public profile. "The reason I'm single at the moment is because I feel like I don't know what the girl's intentions are," Cooper stated. "Are they in the relationship because they actually like me as a person? Not Matt Cooper the footy player, not Matt Cooper the person who has been on TV – you know, Matt Cooper, just the dad."
Honesty and authenticity are paramount for Cooper in a partner. He is looking for someone who is themselves and does not adopt a persona due to his celebrity status. He also specified a preference for brunettes with nice eyes and a pretty face.
This television role marks another foray into reality television for Cooper, who retired from the NRL in 2013 after a successful career with the St George Illawarra Dragons, including their 2010 premiership win. He previously represented New South Wales in 13 State of Origin matches and played seven Tests for Australia. His past reality TV appearances include "Dancing With the Stars," "Celebrity Apprentice," and "Big Brother VIP."
Cooper and his former wife, Dallas, amicably separated after more than two decades together, and they share two daughters. Although the "sexiest man" title once brought him attention, Cooper previously expressed that his football achievements were far more important to him than his modelling work, stating in a 2009 interview, "I don't want to be known for all this modelling stuff. I want to be known for my footy."