Mary Fowler Returns to Australia After Tokyo Olympics

Mary Fowler departed Sydney on Thursday following a brief break after the Matildas' disappointing performance at the Paris Olympics. The 21-year-old forward returned home after the team failed to advance past the pool stage, suffering losses to Germany and the USA, alongside a narrow victory against Zambia. Despite spending quality time with her boyfriend, NRL star Nathan Cleary, who is recovering from an injury, there was no emotional farewell at the airport. Fowler was seen preparing for her flight to Perth, where her English club, Manchester City, is set to compete in a pre-season tournament. Dressed casually in a beige jumper, jeans, and ugg boots, she was spotted browsing for reading material and carried only a small suitcase and a backpack. Notably, fans observed a new tattoo on Fowler's lower back, which reads, "Love by faith not by sight," a detail not previously shared on her social media. During her time in Australia, Fowler enjoyed outings with Cleary, including a day at the markets in the Blue Mountains. Cleary, who recently faced a shoulder injury, has been cleared for play and aims to return for the finals as Penrith seeks a fourth consecutive premiership. Both athletes are familiar with the challenges of injury recovery, with Fowler managing ongoing back and foot issues throughout her career. The couple maintains a private relationship, with Fowler and Cleary often sharing quiet moments away from the public eye, reflecting on the pressures of their respective sports.