Nathan Cleary thanks supporters, vows to return after surgery, tell me about this news in (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-28/sport-nathan-cleary-thanks-supporters-after-surgery/107204796)
28-09-2026
Penrith Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary underwent emergency surgery after suffering a severe open fracture to his left lower leg and ankle during the NRL preliminary final clash against the Newcastle Knights.
From his hospital bed following the procedure, Cleary shared an upbeat message thanking teammates, staff, medical professionals, and supporters for the overwhelming wave of well-wishes. Resolute about the long recovery path ahead, he declared, “I’ll be back,” reassuring fans that he is determined to return to rugby league.
The injury brings an abrupt and heartbreaking conclusion to his 2026 campaign, ruling him out of the NRL Grand Final as well as Australia’s upcoming Rugby League World Cup tournament. Along with repairing the compound fracture in his left leg, medical staff have also been managing a stress-related fracture in his right foot, which will require an extensive rehabilitation process before he can return to the field next season.