I AM LEAVING: Nathan Cleary Announces Departure from Penrith Panthers Due to Personal Reasons
January 5, 2025 — In a shocking and emotional announcement that has sent waves through the rugby league world, Nathan Cleary, the star halfback for the Penrith Panthers, has revealed that he will be leaving the club after an illustrious career with the team. The 26-year-old, who has been an integral part of the Panthers’ success over the past several seasons, confirmed in a press conference earlier today that his decision to leave the club is driven by personal reasons. This announcement has left fans, teammates, and coaches alike in disbelief as they come to terms with the loss of one of the NRL’s brightest stars.
Cleary’s Announcement
The announcement came as a surprise to many, as Cleary had been expected to remain at Penrith, with his contract due to run until the end of the 2025 season. However, in an emotional address, Cleary shared that his decision to depart the club was influenced by a need to focus on personal growth and well-being. While Cleary did not go into specific details about the reasons for his departure, he emphasized that it was a difficult decision that he had been contemplating for some time.
“I want to start by saying that this has been one of the hardest decisions of my life,” Cleary told the media. “I’ve been incredibly proud to represent the Penrith Panthers, and I’ve given everything to this club. But I’ve reached a point in my life where I need to step away and focus on things that are important to me, both personally and professionally. This decision is about growth, reflection, and finding a new path that will help me become the best version of myself.”
Cleary’s departure marks the end of an era for the Panthers, who have seen remarkable success with him at the helm. Over the past several seasons, Cleary has been instrumental in the team’s rise to dominance, leading them to multiple premierships and earning individual accolades along the way. His decision to leave Penrith has left many in the NRL community questioning what the future holds for both Cleary and the club.
A Legacy at Penrith
Nathan Cleary joined the Penrith Panthers as a teenager and quickly established himself as one of the most talented halfbacks in the NRL. He made his debut for the first-grade team in 2016, and over the years, his influence on the field only grew stronger. Known for his tactical vision, kicking game, and leadership abilities, Cleary became the cornerstone of Penrith’s success.
In the 2020 and 2021 seasons, Cleary played a pivotal role in leading the Panthers to consecutive grand finals, securing the NRL Premiership in 2021. His performances during these campaigns earned him the prestigious Dally M Halfback of the Year award in 2020, and he was also named the NRL Player of the Year in the same season. Cleary’s contribution to the team’s success cannot be overstated, as he became the face of the club during its rise to prominence.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Cleary’s leadership qualities have been widely praised. As team captain, he led by example, both in his performances and his work ethic. Under his guidance, the Panthers established a winning culture that saw them remain one of the top teams in the competition. His decision to leave, therefore, comes as a huge blow not only to the club but to the entire NRL, where he is widely regarded as one of the best players of his generation.
Cleary’s Future Plans
While Cleary did not confirm what the next steps in his career will be, he made it clear that he intends to take some time away from the NRL before deciding on his future. The possibility of a move to another club has been speculated, but Cleary refrained from commenting on whether he intends to continue playing in the NRL or pursue other opportunities outside of rugby league.
“I don’t have all the answers right now,” Cleary admitted. “This decision is about taking a step back and focusing on what’s next for me. I need some time to reflect, to process, and to decide where my path will lead. I have so much love for this game, but I also know that there are things in my life that I need to prioritize right now.”
Cleary’s announcement has already sparked a frenzy of speculation about where he might go next. Several NRL clubs have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring the talented halfback, though many have acknowledged that his departure from Penrith marks the end of an era for the Panthers. While his future remains uncertain, there is little doubt that Cleary’s talent will be in high demand should he decide to return to the field.
Reaction from Penrith and the NRL Community
The Penrith Panthers have expressed their deep disappointment at Cleary’s decision but have offered their full support to the player. In a statement released following the press conference, the club acknowledged Cleary’s immense contribution to the team and its success.
“Nathan has been the heart and soul of the Penrith Panthers for many years. His leadership, dedication, and commitment to this club have been nothing short of extraordinary,” the statement read. “While we are saddened by his decision to leave, we understand and respect his need to take this time for himself. Nathan will always be a part of the Penrith Panthers family, and we wish him all the best in whatever comes next.”
The NRL community has also expressed its admiration for Cleary, with coaches, players, and fans all paying tribute to his career and his impact on the game. Many have described him as one of the most gifted players to ever play the sport, and his departure has left a void in the competition.
“Nathan has been an incredible ambassador for the game, and his impact on the NRL will be felt for years to come,” said Peter V’landys, the Chairman of the NRL. “He has set a benchmark for excellence both on and off the field, and his decision to step away is a reminder that players are people too, with their own personal journeys. We respect his decision and wish him all the best in the next chapter of his life.”
What’s Next for Penrith?
With Cleary’s departure, the Penrith Panthers now face a period of transition. The club will need to find a new leader both on and off the field as they attempt to continue their success without their star halfback. The Panthers have a strong roster, but replacing a player of Cleary’s caliber will be no easy task. It is expected that the club will look to bring in a replacement for Cleary in the coming months, either from within their current squad or through recruitment.
The Panthers’ coaching staff, led by Ivan Cleary, will be tasked with navigating this transition while ensuring that the team remains competitive in the NRL. The departure of Nathan Cleary represents a significant shift in the club’s landscape, but many believe that Penrith’s strong foundation will allow them to move forward and remain a force in the competition.
For Nathan Cleary, the next chapter of his life remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: his legacy at the Penrith Panthers will never be forgotten.
