Nathan Cleary, the Penrith Panthers’ star halfback, has solidified his place as one of the NRL’s most accomplished players after being crowned the best player of the 2024 NRL season. His remarkable performances throughout the season have further reinforced his status as one of rugby league’s elite talents, not only in Australia but on the international stage as well. This article explores Cleary’s exceptional 2024 season, his career highlights, leadership qualities, and what the future holds for this brilliant athlete.

Early Beginnings and Path to NRL Stardom
Nathan Cleary was born on November 14, 1997, in Sydney, New South Wales. He comes from a rugby league family, with his father Ivan Cleary being a former player and current coach of the Penrith Panthers. Growing up in a sporting environment, Nathan was destined to follow in his father’s footsteps. His early years were spent in New Zealand, where his father played and coached for the New Zealand Warriors. Nathan attended Sacred Heart College in Auckland before returning to Australia, where he completed his education at St Dominic’s College in Penrith. It was clear from a young age that Nathan had inherited his father’s passion for rugby league, and his immense talent began to shine through as he progressed through the junior ranks.

In 2016, Cleary made his NRL debut for the Penrith Panthers at just 18 years old. He quickly established himself as one of the most promising young halfbacks in the competition. His exceptional kicking game, playmaking ability, and leadership qualities on the field garnered attention from all corners of the rugby league world. Over the next few years, Cleary’s reputation only grew stronger as he helped guide the Panthers to multiple finals appearances, including the 2020 NRL Grand Final, and was awarded the Clive Churchill Medal as the best player in the 2021 Grand Final.

Cleary’s 2024 Season: A Career-Defining Year
The 2024 NRL season was another standout year for Cleary, as he played a pivotal role in leading the Penrith Panthers to their fourth consecutive premiership. Despite facing challenges throughout the season, including injuries that limited his appearances, Cleary’s impact was undeniable.

Cleary’s ability to lead the Panthers through adversity was a testament to his character. Even when he wasn’t on the field, his presence and guidance were crucial to the team’s success. His leadership and playmaking were instrumental in the team’s strong finish to the regular season and their eventual triumph in the finals.

One of Cleary’s most significant achievements in 2024 was his performance during the NRL finals series. In a season where many of his peers were battling injuries or inconsistent form, Cleary remained a consistent and dominant force for the Panthers. His kicking game was a key weapon, and his ability to control the tempo of the game helped Penrith win crucial matches, culminating in the 2024 NRL Grand Final victory against the Melbourne Storm.

While Cleary’s individual brilliance was on full display throughout the season, it was his leadership that truly set him apart. As co-captain of the Panthers alongside Isaah Yeo, Cleary provided a steadying influence when the team needed it most. His ability to inspire his teammates, maintain composure in high-pressure situations, and execute key moments of brilliance under the spotlight proved why he was crowned the best player of the 2024 season.

Cleary’s Playing Style and Key Attributes
Nathan Cleary’s playing style is characterized by a combination of skill, vision, and intelligence. His kicking game is perhaps his most distinguishing feature—whether it’s a well-placed grubber, a pinpoint bomb, or a clever short kick, Cleary is a master at creating scoring opportunities for his team. His long-range kicking ability also allows Penrith to gain valuable territory, making him a dangerous threat both in attack and defense.

But Cleary’s brilliance isn’t just limited to his kicking game. His vision and decision-making skills allow him to create space for his teammates, often orchestrating plays that lead to tries or line breaks. His ability to read the game and make quick, decisive decisions under pressure has been a defining aspect of his career.

Defensively, Cleary is no slouch either. His tackling technique is sound, and his work rate in defense is exemplary. As a halfback, Cleary is often tasked with organizing the defense and ensuring that Penrith holds firm when under pressure from the opposition.

One of Cleary’s key strengths is his mental toughness. His ability to remain calm and composed under the most intense circumstances, such as in close matches or during finals, makes him one of the most reliable players in the NRL.