SAD NEWS FOR THE MOUNTAIN MEN:Heartbreaking moment for rugby league fans across Australia, Penrith Panthers champion Nathan Cleary has announced his retirement due……….
In a heartbreaking moment for rugby league fans across Australia, Penrith Panthers champion Nathan Cleary has announced his retirement from professional rugby league after suffering a sudden and severe health incident.
Cleary, widely regarded as one of the finest halfbacks of his generation, revealed in an emotional press conference that he has been advised by medical specialists to step away from the sport permanently after experiencing a **major cardiac episode** earlier this month.
A Sudden and Unexpected Health Crisis
According to the Panthers’ medical team, the 27-year-old playmaker was rushed to hospital after what was later confirmed to be a heart attack caused by an underlying condition that had gone undetected. Although doctors stabilized him quickly, ongoing tests revealed that continuing to play high-intensity professional sport would pose serious long-term risks.
“It’s the hardest decision of my life,” Cleary said, holding back tears. “Rugby league has been everything to me. But I’ve been told clearly: if I keep playing, I’m putting my life in danger. I have to listen.”
Panthers and NRL Community Rally Behind Their Champion
Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, his father, stood by his side as he expressed pride and gratitude for what Nathan had accomplished.
“He’s not just my son—he’s one of the greatest players I’ve ever coached,” Ivan said. “His health comes first. We will support him every step of the way.”
NRL players, fans, and rival clubs flooded social media with messages of support, calling Cleary’s retirement a devastating moment for the sport but praising his bravery in putting his wellbeing first.
