Penrith Panthers and New South Wales Origin halfback Nathan Cleary has firmly dismissed growing speculation that he is considering a code switch to rugby union, pouring cold water on suggestions that the move would bring him closer to girlfriend and Matildas star Mary Fowler.
Rumours had been swirling in recent weeks that the 27-year-old NRL star might pursue an opportunity overseas, particularly in England or France, aligning him geographically with Fowler, who currently plays for Manchester City in the English Women’s Super League.
NEXT: Mary Fowler Reveals Dream Life with Nathan Cleary
However, speaking from NSW Blues camp ahead of State of Origin II, Cleary provided his strongest response to date, stating unequivocally that he intends to stay in rugby league and fulfil his potential in the sport he’s dedicated his life to.
“I feel like I want to squeeze the most out of my rugby league potential as I can,” Cleary told NCA NewsWire. “I’ve put so much into it and it’s been my passion for so long… I don’t want to waste that.”
The star halfback is under contract with Penrith until the end of the 2027 season and is widely expected to be offered a record-breaking deal should he choose to extend his tenure with the club.
Cleary acknowledged the admiration he holds for rugby union, especially having grown up in New Zealand, but reiterated his love for league remains unwavering.
“I much prefer to watch rugby league any day of the week… I think that I love rugby league too much to even process [a switch] right now,”
he said, adding that a move could only be entertained “later in life,” not during what he considers his peak playing years.
While some pundits have speculated that a transition to union could showcase Cleary’s tactical prowess on a global stage, he made it clear that his focus remains on returning Penrith to form and representing NSW with distinction.
“Going back to Penrith and the way we started the year, that’s a challenge in itself and I’ve found motivation in that. You can’t take winning for granted,” he said.
Cleary’s coach and father, Ivan Cleary, also downplayed the rumours last week.
“Nathan’s here for another two years, so that’s where he’s going to be,” he stated. “Maybe down the track, who knows? But right now, he’s staying put.”
For now, fans hoping to see Cleary in a Wallabies jersey or lining up in a Six Nations showdown will have to wait—if that day ever comes at all.
The NRL playmaker has made it clear: his heart, and future, remain firmly in rugby league.
