Mary Fowler, the celebrated Matildas star and Manchester City player, is navigating a transformative period in her life. At just 22, the soccer sensation has already faced the highs and lows of a professional athlete’s career, including a challenging injury that forced her to reconsider life beyond the pitch. Yet, her recent ventures into the world of fashion and mental health advocacy reveal a multi-faceted individual ready to embrace new challenges.
Fowler’s journey took an unexpected turn when she ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United in April. This injury, a significant setback for any athlete, prompted her to reflect on her future. “Whenever I’ve been injured, it’s made me appreciate the game even more,” Fowler shared from her Manchester apartment, where she has been living since 2022.
A New Chapter: From the Pitch to the Runway
Despite the physical and emotional toll of her injury, Fowler has not remained idle. Last month, she made her debut on the Paris runway at the L’Oreal Paris Le Defile, an event celebrating diversity in beauty. Trading her football boots for high fashion, Fowler joined the ranks of other L’Oreal ambassadors, including Kendall Jenner and Helen Mirren, at the prestigious Hotel de Ville.
While modeling may not be a permanent career shift, the experience highlighted the importance of women supporting one another. “Women just celebrating each other … lifting each other up in general and admiring what another woman is doing, rather than feeling envy,” Fowler remarked, echoing sentiments that resonate deeply in both sports and fashion.
Exploring Mental Health and Personal Growth
Fowler’s time away from soccer has also allowed her to focus on mental health initiatives. She is currently working on 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 and trying to keep up with all the beauty standards that were out there,” she explained, noting the increased pressures faced by today’s youth.
Her personal journey has been one of self-discovery and empowerment. “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?’” Fowler’s reflections have led her to explore how personal appearance and self-care can bolster inner strength.
Balancing Public Life and Personal Aspirations
Fowler’s high-profile relationship with NRL star Nathan Cleary has also been a topic of public interest. While she prefers to keep her personal life private, she shared that their mutual love for coffee helps them stay connected during long separations. “I have a full-on make-it-yourself machine,” she said, proudly discussing her burgeoning barista skills.
Born to an Irish father and a Papua New Guinean mother, Fowler’s upbringing was marked by both cultural richness and financial challenges. Her family’s resilience has been a source of strength, as she navigated the competitive world of professional sports. Brazilian footballer Marta and US gymnast Simone Biles are among her role models, inspiring her to prioritize mental health and personal well-being.
Looking Ahead: A Return to Soccer and Beyond
With her recovery progressing, Fowler is eager to return to soccer, aiming to be fit by January. “I didn’t think I was gonna miss kicking the ball as much as I did,” she admitted, expressing a renewed passion for the sport. Her commitment extends beyond personal goals, as she advocates for the growth of women’s football and challenges the lingering gender biases in sports.
As our conversation drew to a close, Fowler shared her long-term aspirations, which include a dream of living on a farmhouse and starting a family. “Being in the spotlight has made me really crave privacy,” she confessed, highlighting her desire for a balanced life that encompasses both professional success and personal fulfillment.
Mary Fowler’s journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability, qualities that will undoubtedly guide her as she continues to break new ground both on and off the field.
