Roosters Star Angus Crichton Hails Wife's Support on Eve of 200th NRL Appearance
Sydney Roosters forward Angus Crichton has paid a heartfelt tribute to his wife Chloe, crediting her as a pivotal source of strength and stability as he prepares to mark his 200th NRL match. The 30-year-old player, who debuted in first-grade rugby league with South Sydney in 2016, has navigated a career punctuated by both on-field triumphs and well-documented mental health challenges.
A Turning Point During Personal Crisis
Crichton met Chloe during one of the most difficult periods of his life, shortly after representing Australia in the victorious 2022 Rugby League World Cup squad in England. Mere weeks into their relationship, Crichton experienced a severe medical episode in the south of France, leading to his admission to a psychiatric ward. At the time, he was grappling with an undiagnosed bipolar disorder, a condition that has since been managed with treatment and support.
"The easiest option for her was to ditch this bloke she had met a month or so earlier, when I was locked in a psychiatric ward," Crichton revealed in an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald. "But she somehow saw the good in me and chose to stay in contact."
Unwavering Commitment and Growing Family
Chloe's decision to stand by Crichton proved transformative. The couple, who married in May of last year, have remained inseparable and are now eagerly anticipating the arrival of their first child, with Chloe currently 37 weeks pregnant. Crichton reflected on their journey, noting, "She eventually ended up my girlfriend, then wife, now the [soon-to-be] mother of our child."
Chloe's steadfast support was influenced by her family's own experiences with mental health. Her father, Clem, who lost his brother to mental health issues, advised her to maintain communication with Crichton during his struggles. "My Dad told me how if he [his brother] had someone to talk to, it might have been different," Chloe explained. "So, 'Whatever is going on with this guy, just keep talking to him,' Dad told me."
Reflecting on a Decade of Rugby League
Despite the adversities faced over his nearly decade-long career, Crichton expresses profound gratitude for his current circumstances. He has achieved significant success, including representing New South Wales in State of Origin, playing for Australia, and securing an NRL premiership with the Roosters in 2019. As he approaches the 200-game milestone, Crichton acknowledges the many individuals who have contributed to his journey.
"To play 200 games, there's been a lot of reflection and a lot of people I need to thank," he said. "I'm super blessed to live the life I live. Rugby league has given me everything."
Inspiring Others Through Shared Experience
Crichton hopes that by openly discussing his mental health battles and the support he received, he can offer encouragement to others facing similar challenges. "If I can help someone feel more comfortable, or feel more normal or seen, that's a positive for me," he stated. His story underscores the importance of resilience, community, and the transformative power of unwavering personal support in overcoming life's hurdles.
