Penrith superstar Nathan Cleary makes it home after operation on his other foot with minutes to spare to watch the grand final – as his 2027 season remains in doubt

Nathan Cleary was seen leaving a Sydney hospital on Sunday afternoon.

By ASHLEY NICKEL · Daily Mail

Published: Sunday, 4 October 2026 at 9:52 AM

Key Things to Know

Nathan Cleary was discharged from the hospital on Sunday just in time to watch the NRL grand final.
Cleary underwent surgeries for a left leg compound fracture and an existing right foot fracture.
Panthers CEO Andrew Hill noted Cleary is expected to return between rounds one and four of the 2027 season.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Penrith Panthers star Nathan Cleary was discharged from a Sydney hospital on Sunday afternoon just ahead of the NRL grand final. Cleary was assisted into a vehicle by his father and Panthers coach, Ivan Cleary, following surgeries on both legs. The halfback sustained a compound fracture and dislocated ankle on his left leg against the Knights on September 27, before undergoing an additional procedure for an existing fracture in his right foot.

Cleary, who accepted his first Dally M Medal remotely from his parents' home earlier in the week, faces an extensive recovery. Panthers Group CEO Andrew Hill stated that the surgeon expects Cleary to return between round one and round four, potentially causing him to miss the start of the 2027 NRL season.

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