A wild conspiracy theory about Aussie sporting power couple Mary Fowler and Nathan Cleary has been floated on social media following the Matildas star’s recent health announcement.
Fowler has ruled herself out of the Matildas’ upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Chinese Taipei to prioritise her mental and physical health.
The Australian attacker has had a busy start to the new season, continuing to play for both the Matildas and City, while also holidaying with boyfriend Nathan Cleary in the UK and Europe.
She has made thirteen appearances for her club side in both the WSL and the Women’s Champions League this season, having also recently travelled to play for the Matildas during their matches against Switzerland and Germany.
Fowler admitted that the ‘demanding’ start to the season has been a ‘challenge’ and added that she wanted to take some time away to recharge in order to perform at her best for both City and the Matildas.
‘Playing for the national team is something that I never take for granted,’ Fowler said in a statement.
Mary Fowler’s recent decision to withdraw from international fixtures has sparked a wild theory online
Some fans believe that the Matildas superstar (pictured with Nathan Cleary) is pregnant
‘It’s an incredible honour to represent Australia every time I put the jersey on. I have, however, through past experiences, come to realise that my mind and my body are also things that I should also never take for granted.
‘Over the past few months, playing with an increasingly demanding schedule has been both exciting but at times also challenging.
‘I love being able to play at the top level of my sport, but recognising that sometimes my mind and body also need to rest has been an invaluable lesson for me.
‘Therefore, I’ve decided to take this time to prioritise recovery in order to refresh both mentally and physically, so that I can continue to put my best self forward for both club and country.
‘I really appreciate everyone’s support and understanding, and I hope to see you all soon.’
Aussie sports fans have responded warmly to the Matildas star’s health update, but conspiracy theorists are having a field day with more than a few speculating that Fowler is pregnant.
‘What’s the bet she is pregnant,’ responded one Facebook user.
‘Preggers,’ declared another.
‘She is up the duff,’ replied a third.
Cleary, meanwhile, has been enjoying some down time of late, following his romantic getaway to Europe with Fowler.
He joined Fowler when the Matildas journeyed to Switzerland and Germany for two matches, and they were also sighted in the stands at England’s Super League grand final, where Nathan was interviewed on TV and quizzed about rumours he could switch to the competition to be closer to his partner – or even hop codes to rugby union so he could be in the UK with her.
Nathan Cleary and Mary Fowler are pictured during his recent trip to England to spend time with her after the NRL grand final
There have been other signs that the couple’s relationship is anything but a long-distance fling.
Last month, Nathan gave a very telling answer when he was asked about settling down and having a baby with Fowler.
Business guru Mark Bouris asked the star if he was thinking about setting himself up for life after footy on his podcast after Cleary made a high-profile investment in a Sydney brewery with his UFC fighter mates Tai Tuivasa and Tyson Pedro.
‘I’ve been thinking about it more, particularly this year with injuries, I’ve had a lot of time to myself to think,’ Cleary replied.
‘You just think it’s going to go forever and then you have a few injuries and you’re out of the game.
‘You sort of realise this isn’t going to last forever.
‘I reckon this is the first year I have probably really thought about post footy and what that looks like for me.
‘It’s been an interesting journey. It’s one that I am excited about.
Cleary and Fowler have been dating since late 2023, unable to hide the worst-kept secret in Australian sport
‘I know it’s a fair way away, well I hope it’s a fair way away yet, but the thing I am excited about is a new passion, something that you can put your time and effort into. We’ll see when we get there.’
Bouris then started talking about the need to think ahead once Cleary had hung up the boots, and added that his romance could change his long-term plans.
‘Having a girl you’re interested in too, you’re probably starting to have thoughts like, for one day, I’ve got to keep the Cleary name going,’ Bouris said.
‘Absolutely,’ Cleary replied emphatically.
‘Have maybe just one kid, just sport out of it all,’ Bouris said as they both laughed.
‘It could be a soccer player,’ Cleary laughed.
‘It could be, why not?’ Bouris replied.
‘I tell you what would be good, if there is a girl or a boy it would be a good kicker. They would be able to kick a ball.’
Cleary replied: ‘You would like to think so.’
