A crazy conspiracy theory about Australian sports power couple Mary Fowler and Nathan Cleary has emerged on social media following the Matildas star’s recent health announcement.
Fowler has ruled out the Matildas’ upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Chinese Taipei to prioritize his physical and mental health.
The Australian attacker has had a busy start to the season, continuing to play for both the Matildas and City, while also on holiday with boyfriend Nathan Cleary in the UK and Europe.
She has made thirteen appearances for her club in both the WSL and Women’s Champions League this season, and has also recently traveled to play for the Matildas during their matches against Switzerland and Germany.
Fowler admitted the ‘demanding’ start to the season has been ‘challenging’ and added that he wanted to take some time to recharge so he could perform at his best for both City and the Matildas.
“Playing for the national team is something I never take for granted,” Fowler said in a statement.
Mary Fowler’s recent decision to retire from international matches has sparked a wild theory online.
Some fans believe the Matildas superstar (pictured with Nathan Cleary) is pregnant
“It is an incredible honor to represent Australia every time I put on the jersey. However, through past experiences, I have realized that my mind and body are also things I should never take for granted.
“Over the past few months, playing an increasingly demanding schedule has been exciting but, at times, also challenging.
‘I love being able to play at the highest level of my sport, but recognizing that sometimes my mind and body also need to rest has been an invaluable lesson for me.
“Therefore, I have decided to take this time to prioritize recovery in order to refresh myself both mentally and physically, so that I can continue to give my best for both club and country.
“I really appreciate everyone’s support and understanding and I hope to see you all soon.”
Australian sports fans have responded warmly to the Matildas star’s health update, but conspiracy theorists are having fun, with more than a few speculating that Fowler is pregnant.
“What’s the bet that she’s pregnant?” one Facebook user responded.
“Pregnant,” declared another.
“She’s lost,” a third responded.
Meanwhile, Cleary has been enjoying some time off lately, following her romantic getaway to Europe with Fowler.
He joined Fowler when the Matildas traveled to Switzerland and Germany for two matches, and were also seen in the stands at the English Super League grand final, where Nathan was interviewed on television and asked about rumors that he could move to the competition to be closer to their partner, or even jump codes to rugby union so they can be in the UK with them.
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 revealing answer when asked about settling down and having a baby with Fowler.
Business guru Mark Bouris asked the star if he was thinking about preparing for life after football on his podcast after Cleary made a high-profile investment in a Sydney brewery with fellow UFC fighters Tai Tuivasa and Tyson Pedro.
“I’ve been thinking about it more, especially this year with the injuries, I’ve had a lot of time to think,” Cleary responded.
“You just think this is going to last forever and then you get some injuries and you’re out of the game.
‘In a way you realize that this is not going to last forever.
“I think this is the first year I’ve really thought about post-football and what that means to me.
‘It has been an interesting journey. It’s something that excites me.
Cleary and Fowler leave from the end of 2023, unable to hide the worst kept secret in Australian sport
“I know there’s still a long way to go, well I hope it’s still pretty far away, but what excites me is a new passion, something you can put your time and effort into.” We’ll see when we get there.
Bouris then began talking about the need to think about the future once Cleary had hung up his boots, adding that their romance could change his long-term plans.
“Having a girl you’re interested in, you’re probably starting to have thoughts like, for one day, I have to keep the name Cleary,” Bouris said.
“Absolutely,” Cleary responded emphatically.
“Maybe I just have a son and, above all, sports,” Bouris said as they both laughed.
“I could be a football player,” Cleary laughed.
‘Could be, why not?’ Bouris responded.
‘I tell them what would be good, if there is a girl or boy it would be a good kicker. “They would be able to kick a ball.”
Cleary responded: “You’d like to think so.”