In the world of sports, the fortunate few athletes determine the timing and manner of their retirement. For Mary Fowler, a star of the Matildas and Manchester City in England’s Women’s Super League, life after soccer is envisioned as a tranquil existence on a farmhouse, complete with animals and a vegetable patch. At just 22 years old, Fowler’s dream remains distant, as her career is only beginning to flourish.
Fowler’s journey took an unexpected turn when she ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during April’s FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United. This injury forced her to contemplate life without football, a prospect she had not seriously considered before. Speaking from her Manchester apartment, Fowler reflects, “Whenever I’ve been injured, it’s made me appreciate the game even more.”
The Road to Recovery and New Ventures
Before her ACL injury, Fowler had only experienced a three-month hiatus from football due to a back injury in 2023. Despite these setbacks, she remains optimistic about her future, both on and off the field. “I’ve always had passions outside of football,” she shares, highlighting her confidence in exploring new avenues beyond the sport.
Fowler’s recent foray onto the Paris runway for the L’Oreal Paris Le Defile event marked a significant departure from her usual domain. Donning a black Christian Siriano gown, she joined renowned figures like Kendall Jenner and Helen Mirren in celebrating diversity in beauty. While modeling isn’t a primary career goal, the experience underscored the importance of women supporting each other.
“If [something] scares you, just show up as yourself and do it anyway. It’s your life, and if you have that opportunity, you’re getting it because you’re worthy,” Fowler says, echoing L’Oreal’s iconic tagline.
Mental Health Advocacy and Personal Growth
Fowler’s injury has prompted her to explore confidence beyond the soccer pitch. “I’ve been questioning myself: ‘Why is it that I feel most confident in my work? Why don’t I feel like that in general?’” she muses. This introspection has led to personal growth, as she discovers how her appearance can influence her inner strength.
With more time available, Fowler has embarked on several mental health initiatives, including authoring a motivational book for young adults titled Bloom, set for release in November. “When I was a teenager, I struggled with finding how I fit in,” she recalls, emphasizing the challenges today’s youth face with social media pressures.
A Role Model On and Off the Field
Beyond her athletic prowess, Fowler is a role model for young women, known for her love of hiking, arts and crafts, and vintage clothing. Her relationship with NRL star Nathan Cleary also garners attention, though she prefers to keep it private. The couple shares a passion for coffee, often exchanging photos of their creations during long separations.
Fowler’s upbringing was marked by financial hardship and frequent relocations, including a stint in the Netherlands. Despite these challenges, she found inspiration in athletes like Brazilian footballer Marta and US gymnast Simone Biles, who famously prioritized her mental health during the Tokyo Olympics.
“She’s the best in her sport, and she’s on the world stage, but she’s decided to prioritize herself. And I was like, ‘That’s amazing,’” Fowler reflects on Biles’ decision.
The Future of Women’s Football and Personal Aspirations
As Fowler continues her recovery, she remains committed to advancing women’s football, a sport that has seen significant growth, particularly in Australia. However, she acknowledges that challenges persist, including facing degrading comments. “Learning how to deal with that and speak up” has been a critical growth area for her.
Looking ahead, Fowler dreams of a life beyond the spotlight, envisioning a future where she can start a family. “My sporting dream was to go to the Olympics, and I’ve been lucky enough to do that. The only other dream I’ve ever had was to start a family,” she shares, her eyes set on a fulfilling life beyond her athletic achievements.
As she anticipates her return to the pitch, Fowler is eager to contribute to the sport she loves while carving out a life that balances personal happiness and professional success. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating resilience and the courage to pursue one’s passions, both on and off the field.
