Matt Rowell just pulled off the most amazing upset at the 2023 Brownlow Medal count. Once considered a long shot at best, now he has won the big prize! The young forward from the Gold Coast Suns wowed fans for his electrifying displays all season long. He started off his campaign with a haymaker of an opener, scoring four straight three-vote games! Rowell never lost his lead, outpacing his opponent throughout the count until capping it off with a 39-vote margin of victory on the final tally.
The accomplishment solidifies Rowell’s place as one of the all-time greats in AFL history. He’ll end the season with the second-most votes ever recorded in the league! It’s no wonder then that his performance wowed fans and pundits alike. In addition, it further entrenched his status as one of Australian football’s biggest rising stars.
Ever since the opening match of the season, Rowell has been playing at a whole other level. With only two rounds to go, he’s created a lead that can’t be overcome. His success was further brought to bear by his close friend and teammate, Noah Anderson. Combined, they polled an amazing 64 votes, making them the highest polling duo in Brownlow history.
After getting news of his win, Rowell seemed nearly stunned, mentally processing the enormity of the day.
“I mean it sounds pretty surreal, to be honest. I cannot believe I’m standing up here tonight,” – Matt Rowell
In his acceptance speech, the budding sportsman used the opportunity to thank his family. He praised them as major forces behind his success. Describing them as “very loving and supportive,” Rowell credited their support, even during his struggles while transitioning to life in the AFL.
“My family are massive supporters and they are everything to me, they are at every game, and I think they have hardly missed a home game,” – Matt Rowell
He talked about how crucial their role has been in his life, especially spotlighting his two sisters who keep him humble.
“They support me so much and my two sisters keep me very grounded, I am in the middle so I cannot get away with anything with those two,” – Matt Rowell
Rowell’s emotional thank you to his family of course highlighted the faith and humility that fuels him on and off the field.
“Very loving and supportive, and that is why I’m standing up here today,” – Matt Rowell
Today, Rowell looks back on that journey with pride. He never loses sight of his long-term ambitions, not least the objective of winning a premiership with his profession’s most-feared team.
“I think a lot of boys could be standing up here tonight so I feel very humbled and very honoured to be up here,” – Matt Rowell
Rowell’s friendship with Anderson has been one of the most important parts of his time in the AFL so far. He reflected on the unparalleled opportunity they had to advance through their careers alongside one another.
“It is kind of cool going through the whole journey with him,” – Matt Rowell
