Nathan Cleary reaffirmed his status as one of Penrith’s most influential players in 2025.
Renowned as one of the best players in the modern era, Cleary produced some career-best performances this season, leading the Panthers from last place in Round 12 to a preliminary final.
The no. 7 played a key role in the Panthers’ stunning late-season resurgence. Across 22 games he scored six tries, assisted 17 tries and forced 25 drop outs, while kicking 79 goals with an 87.8% conversion rate. In defence, he made 20 tackles per game with an 87.5% tackle efficiency.
In spite of niggling injury disruptions, he continued to orchestrate perfect play after perfect play, leading to match-winning and match saving moments.
In Round 7, Cleary surpassed Ryan Girdler’s record of 1,572 points to become Penrith’s all-time greatest point-scorer.
Cleary’s performances earned two major awards, adding to his extensive list of individual honours. He received the prestigious Merv Cartwright Medal for the third time and was named Dally M Halfback of the Year.
ACHIEVEMENTS
- 2025 Merv Cartwright Medallist
- 2025 Dally M Halfback of the Year
- Second place on Dally M Medal Leaderboard
- OAK Plus Try of the Year at Merv Cartwright Medal
- Three State of Origin appearances for NSW
- Selected in Australia squad for Ashes Tour
- Became greatest point-scorer in Panthers history
GALLERY
The best shots of Nathan Cleary this year.
STAT ATTACK
Appearances – 22
Tries – 6
Goals – 79
Conversion rate – 87.8%
Try assists – 17
Line break assists – 18
Offloads – 20
Forced drop outs – 25
Kicking metres – 12,726 (578.5 per game)
Running metres – 2,151 (97 per game)
Tackles – 434 (19.7 per game)
Tackle efficiency – 87.5%
BEST TRY
Cleary’s heroic, match-winning effort against the Bulldogs in Round 17 was named the 2025 OAK Plus Try of the Year.
Charge. Down. Try.
WHAT WAS SAID
Andrew Johns pinpoints Cleary's impact on the game as,
Wally Lewis-like"
NRL Immortal Andrew Johns
On the future of the team, Cleary said;
I wouldn't say anything is over yet,"
Nathan Cleary
SOCIAL SCENE
Cleary shared this shot collaborating with the Western Sydney Wanderers.
