Footy icon Nathan apparently makes a cryptic comment that will fuel speculation that his alleged romance with Matildas star Mary Fowler is underway

They’re one of the hottest power couples in Australian sport and now Nathan Cleary has made a subtle hint that he’s in a romantic relationship with Matildas star Mary Fowler.

The duo caused a stir with two public appearances together after the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Penrith residents first saw the 25-year-old NRL star as he enjoyed a stroll along the scenic banks of the Nepean River with the 20-year-old Matildas forward.

They were also seen enjoying an ice cream together after a promotional event with Adidas, a joint sponsor.

Fowler shares her love with Matilda’s fans during the Women’s World Cup, but does she also share her heart with Nathan Cleary?

The Penrith playmaker split from partner Teah Foot a year ago and has been linked with Matilda’s Star Fowler

Nathan Cleary is a representative player for New South Wales and Australia while Fowler plays for Manchester City and also represents their country

Neither party has confirmed or denied the possible budding romance, but Cleary – who split from former partner Teah Foot last year – dropped a suggestion that the pair could be at the opening of the NRL Finals.

“It’s like, it’s a bit annoying not having a private life, but I like not to talk about it too much and keep whatever I can private,” he said Monday.

“Social media is going pretty fast, but I’ll try to keep my private life private if I can.”

To fuel the flames further, Cleary Fowlers used Matildas as an example of how Tall Poppy Syndrome can be challenging when you’re at your best.

The Penrith Panthers completed 2020, 2022 and 2023 as minor Premierships and the club are aiming for a historic hat-trick of NRL Premierships in this year’s finals series.

‘[Tall poppy syndrome is] extremely strange,” he said.

“Not long ago the Matildas were surrounded by everyone, it was a great thing for the country to come together, but once they lost there were people who nitpicked instead of appreciating it for what it was .”

Fowler and Cleary share a sponsorship in Adidas and both recently attended a promotional event for the iconic brand

Cleary made a revealing comment about the Matildas when discussing becoming a victim of Tall Poppy Syndrome

The rumors about the potential power couple were first circulated on the Hello Sport podcast.

“Real Men’s Weekly vibes.” “Nathan Cleary and Mary Fowler were spotted enjoying ice cream together,” host Tom Birmingham said.

“Now they’re both sponsored by Adidas and maybe they did an event.” But you eat ice cream with someone, that’s saying something. You might as well hold hands.’

Fellow host Eddy Simpson said, “Until they’re doing an ice cream commercial, they’re essentially dating.”

Birmingham added, “That’s basically a hickey. It’s the culinary hickey of sharing an ice cream cone.”