At just 21, Mary Fowler has already achieved more than many footballers do across their entire sporting careers.

Two World Cups with the Matildas, an Olympic Games in 2021 as well as a contract in the Women's Super League with English giants Manchester City. 

But Fowler remains humble, and on Friday https://www.instagram.com/p/C38tSbLy58s/, acknowledging how 'grateful' she is to be living the life of a globally recognised professional athlete.

Her photo dump included a loved up image with her boyfriend - NRL superstar Nathan Cleary - as well as celebrating with her teammates after securing qualification for the Paris Olympics this week against Uzbekistan.

Fowler is also spotted posing for a photo with Australian sporting legend Cathy Freeman, who famously won gold on the track in the 400m at the Sydney Olympics.

A 'grateful' Mary Fowler took to Instagram on Friday, with the Matildas star acknowledging how blessed her life is (pictured, with NRL superstar boyfriend Nathan Cleary)

She caught up with Cleary this week in Melbourne, as the high profile sporting couple continue their long distance relationship.

They have been rumoured to be dating since last August, before finally going official in January.

Cleary - who virtually won the NRL grand final himself for the Panthers in October - is a private person, but acknowledged in a recent interview his love life is now a constant talking point for many fans.

'It [media attention] comes with the territory. It's something that I can't control,' he said.

'I just got to keep moving on and not read too much into it.'

Fowler is now believed to be back in England - but this week the winger found the back of the net on Wednesday night in Australia's 10-0 win over a hapless Uzbekistan.

The result sealed Australia's spot in the Paris Olympics come July, where Tony Gustavsson's squad loom as a genuine medal chance.