BREAKING NEWS: Penrith panthers star Nathan clearly this is my first whole world when I first meat Mary Fowler I admit-she wasn’t what I had imagined.I had my hand completely wrapped up in footy,and I wasn’t looking for anything else Mary Fowler Daisy, though was different,she was Confident energetic and had no problem speaking her mind.At the time,I wasn’t sure how to take…..view more

In a heartfelt and revealing moment, Penrith Panthers superstar **Nathan Cleary** has spoken publicly about his first encounter with Matildas sensation **Mary Fowler**, sharing how their relationship began and the impression she left on him from day one.

Cleary, known for his calm composure on the rugby league field, admitted that his world once revolved entirely around football. But meeting Fowler changed everything.

> “This is my first whole world,” Cleary confessed. “When I first met Mary, I admit — she wasn’t what I had imagined. I had my hand completely wrapped up in footy, and I wasn’t looking for anything else. Mary, though, was different. She was confident, energetic, and had no problem speaking her mind. At the time, I wasn’t sure how to take it.”

The Penrith halfback went on to explain that Fowler’s energy and independence quickly drew him in. While the two athletes come from different sporting worlds, their shared discipline and love for the game seem to have built a strong connection.

Rumours of their relationship first surfaced in mid-2024 after the pair were spotted together at several public events, sparking a wave of excitement from fans across both the NRL and Matildas communities. Neither had spoken in depth about their connection—until now.

Cleary’s comments offer fans a rare glimpse into the softer, more personal side of one of rugby league’s fiercest competitors.

> “Mary’s driven, she’s passionate about what she does, and she’s genuine,” Cleary said. “That’s something I really respect. She makes me want to be better — on and off the field.”

While both Cleary and Fowler continue to focus on their respective sporting careers, their relationship appears to be blossoming under the spotlight, proving that even in the high-pressure worlds of professional sport, love can find its way.