Matildas forward Mary Fowler has opened up about the significant challenges of maintaining her relationship with Penrith Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary, revealing they only see each other about twice a year.
Fowler, who plays for Manchester City in England, shared that the couple has found it necessary to adjust to their prolonged separations. "Even with Nathan, it's gotten to a point where we don't really want to say that we miss each other because it makes it harder," she told AFR. "Because then you think about it. It's stuff like that, where you both kind of have to adjust to being apart."
The demanding schedules of professional football and rugby league often place them on opposite sides of the world. To cope with the distance, Fowler and Cleary have prioritized communication and found shared activities. "Something that we both really appreciate about the long distance is that our form of connection has had to be through talking for much of it," Fowler explained. "I think that's really enabled the relationship to grow on a nice foundation of just being friends first."
They have also established an informal book club, allowing them to share an experience despite their geographical separation. "Being able to find things where we can connect from afar really helps," Fowler said. "Just to feel like, 'Oh, he's there with me in a way.'"
Fowler has recently returned to action with Manchester City after recovering from an ACL injury that sidelined her for nearly a year. Her playing time has been managed carefully since her comeback, but she expressed confidence in her current form. "I'm feeling like myself," she stated.
Her focus is now on securing more minutes for Manchester City, with an eye towards the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Fowler reflected on her performance at the Paris Olympics, describing it as a valuable lesson after pressure impacted her play. "I ended up having a very below-average tournament because I was so in my head about things," she said. "I just need to play free."
Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds Cleary's future with the Penrith Panthers. The NRL star has postponed a decision on extending his contract until after the 2026 finals series. If a new deal is not reached before November 1, he will be eligible to negotiate with rival clubs for the 2028 season. Reports have linked him with lucrative offers, including from the PNG Chiefs, and speculative interest from English Super League clubs. Cleary has indicated he does not intend to rush the significant decision, citing a hectic Origin period and the team's performance as factors influencing his focus. The potential of playing alongside his brother Jett at Penrith is also a consideration for Cleary.