Mary Fowler posts spring-themed recovery update after devastating ACL injury
Penrith’s Nathan Cleary has sent a subtle message of support for his girlfriend Mary Fowler following the Matildas star’s ACL surgery.
Entertainment
Don't miss out on the headlines from Entertainment. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Matildas and Manchester City star Mary Fowler has taken the first steps on her long journey to recovery after undergoing successful surgery for a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.
Fowler, 22, shared a series of upbeat images on social media on Saturday, visibly putting on a brave face as she posed in a floral spring outfit, supported by her new accessories — a set of crutches.
“Trusting this path, surgery done,” Fowler captioned the photos, demonstrating resilience and optimism despite the challenging rehabilitation ahead.
The talented forward suffered the injury during Manchester City’s FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester United earlier this month and will now face up to a year, or perhaps more, on the sidelines.
However, Fowler’s determination appears to remain strong.
In a playful final photo, she cheekily points a crutch at the camera with a scrunched face, highlighting her unwavering strength and sense of humour.
Although Fowler’s boyfriend, NRL star Nathan Cleary, has not publicly commented on her injury, he appeared to show his support by posting a subtle message on Instagram earlier this week, wearing a Matildas jersey featuring Fowler’s number, 11.
The Women’s Asian Cup is due to kick off on March 1 2026, meaning Fowler will need to achieve a quicker-than-usual recovery to participate.
In a statement released by Football Australia, Fowler vowed to use her enforced lay-off as an opportunity for growth.
“I’m really disappointed to be facing some time out of the game,” she said.
“It’s never easy when something like this happens especially when you’ve been working so hard and feeling good. The road ahead will be challenging, but I’m ready to take it on.
“There’s still so much I want to achieve, and I’ll be using this time to grow in every way I can. I’m committed to doing the work, staying positive and coming back better than ever.
“I want to say a big thank you to everyone who’s sent messages or checked in — it’s honestly meant so much. The support from my teammates, family, friends and fans has been a real lift and reminded me how lucky I am to be surrounded by such a strong network.”
Messages of encouragement flooded in from teammates including Mackenzie Arnold, Emily Gielnik, and Manchester City colleague Leila Ouahabi. F
Fowler’s recovery will be closely followed by fans eager to see her return for next year’s tournament on Australian soil.
‘Nothing gets missed’: MasterChef judges spill new-season secrets
MasterChef Australia judges Andy Allen and Jean-Christophe Novelli have lifted the lid on production secrets as the show heads into season 17.
Model breaks silence on Justin Hemmes’ baby
As Madeline Holtznagel prepares to welcome her first child with hospitality billionaire Justin Hemmes, the model speaks for the first time about her relationship with the hotelier.