Footy great Nick Riewoldt makes life-changing decision after leaving Australia to raise a family
- AFL legend has been living in America for several years
- Was a prominent football media identity before making a move
Nick Riewoldt has announced he and his family are returning to Australia from the US after signing a contract with Channel Seven as an expert AFL commentator for the 2025 season and beyond.
The 41-year-old St Kilda legend left his successful television career with Fox Sports in 2022 to relocate with his family of five to Houston, Texas, as his wife’s family hails from the area.
Football fans have missed Riewoldt’s insight and personality. The former striker had strong chemistry with Jonathan Brown, Kath Loughnan and Nathan Buckley.
There is also a lot of speculation about the return date of the Saints legend. He can now confirm that he will be back on the television screens in Australia a few times a week.
“After two years living in Cath’s hometown of Houston and working full-time at PMY in stadium and event technology, we are all very much looking forward to returning to Melbourne and joining the Seven family,” said Riewoldt ahead of his arrival.
“I am excited to join 7AFL and be part of the network’s new vision for football coverage and programming in 2025 and beyond.
“Seven has put together a fantastic team and I can’t wait to get started and work with the team to bring the sport directly to football fans across Australia.”
Chris Jones, Managing Director of Network Sport, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Nick to the Seven family in 2025.
Football legend Nick Riewoldt has revealed he and his family will return to Australia from the US after being hired by Seven
Riewoldt, 41, moved to Houston, Texas, in 2022 with his three sons and wife
‘Nick is one of the game’s finest modern players and an elite football analyst, and will be a perfect addition to our already star-studded team of 7AFL experts, callers and hosts.
‘As we expand our AFL programming, more opportunities will arise for industry talent to join football’s best commentary team, and we’re excited to see how Nick’s expertise will enrich and complement our already excellent coverage in 2025.’
The major change in the media landscape came after both Kane Cornes and Caroline Wilson moved from Nine to Seven.
Riewoldt admitted in October that it would take a lot of effort to convince his family to move back to Australia, as the five-piece enjoy life in America.
“They laid it on thick, they laid it on really thick,” Riewoldt said of his family’s love for their new home.
Riewoldt says he is excited to join Seven and return to Australia
Riewoldt made his AFL debut in 2001 and played 336 games for St Kilda
His parents came from Australia to see their grandchildren for the first time this year.
“They were allowed to come and see how the boys live, it was a fantastic year,” said Riewoldt.
“Everyone is very well integrated, the boys have been playing sports and are fitting in at school. They are a bit of a novelty with their Australian accents. It’s great.”
After making his debut in the AFL’s final year in 2001, Riewoldt played 336 games for St Kilda before retiring at the end of the 2017 season.
He scored 718 goals and was voted an All Australian Player five times.
Riewoldt failed to win the Premier League with Sherrin, but he did play in the 2009 Grand Final against Geelong, plus both deciding games in 2010 against Collingwood after the first match at the MCG had ended in a draw.