Mary Fowler

Football Australia and teammates have been left stunned by footballer Mary Fowler's unexplained absence, according to Nine.com.au. The story has drawn attention partly because of Fowler's high-profile relationship with NRL star Nathan Cleary, one of the most followed athlete couples in Australia, prompting widespread speculation about the reason for her no-show.

Mary Fowler has abruptly withdrawn from the Australia women's football squad, and some Matildas teammates say they only learned of her exit when it became public. The withdrawal comes ahead of Australia's international friendlies, leaving coach and players to adjust preparations. Reports in Australia focus on the surprise inside the camp and the lack of clarity over the reason for her departure.

Matildas forward Mary Fowler has returned to Australia while her partner, NRL star Nathan Cleary, recovers at home from a second surgery on his injury. The update on the high-profile sporting couple is drawing attention across Australia and internationally, with fans following both Fowler's movements with the national team setup and Cleary's recovery from the latest operation.