Anthony Minichiello says marriage to shoe queen Terry Biviano is ‘not easy’

Former NRL star Anthony Minichiello has opened up about life after rugby league and the secret to his marriage with shoe designer Terry Biviano.

Seven years after retiring from rugby league, Anthony Minichiello doesn’t miss the sport.

The former Sydney Roosters star has his weekends back, more family time and business opportunities.

“I get asked this question all the time. No, I don’t miss it,” he said.

“I was very fortunate that I retired on my own terms. I was ready to move into a new chapter of my life. 18 years at the Roosters was amazing.

“I still love watching the game, and my body is happy that I can wake up fresh every Monday morning instead of feeling sore. The strength and athleticism of players these days is phenomenal. I also had a plan well before I retired, which certainly helped me. I would say it’s a four to five-year transition into a normal and balanced work life.”

Former rugby star Anthony Minichiello has opened up about marriage and fatherhood. Picture: Richard Dobson

Minichiello, 41, is still passionate about fitness in retirement.

Before the pandemic, the Minifit founder ran health and fitness programs in primary schools, which transitioned into free holiday clinics and later into PE programs aligned with the NSW school curriculum.

However, he has been forced him to move his business entirely online.

The Lexus ambassador said the best thing about retirement is being with his wife, shoe designer Terry Biviano, and their seven-year-old daughter Azura.

Minichiello with his wife, Terry Biviano, and daughter Azura. Picture: Instagram

“When you play a professional sport, it’s all about your schedule and preparing your body for game day,” he said.

“Now I love spending the weekends with my wife and daughter, just hanging out together or catching up with friends.

“I also have had some pretty incredible opportunities.”

The couple celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary earlier this year and he admits marriage is not always easy.

“We love each other, which makes things easier, of course,” he said.

“But it’s not all easy, like anything good you have to work at it. I’m lucky to have Terry because she is a talker, which means she expresses her thoughts and feelings well. I’m lucky to have her.”