Cronulla Sharks prop Toby Rudolf has shared a candid update on his personal life, revealing a desire for an unconventional romantic future that includes pursuing “100 girlfriends” and embracing open relationships. The NRL star, who has previously spoken about his fluid sexuality, articulated his current approach to love and connection, emphasizing a departure from traditional monogamy.

Exploring Non-Monogamous Relationships

Rudolf stated that he is actively seeking romantic connections without the constraints of exclusive partnerships. “100 girlfriends. I’m looking for a romantic connection any way it comes,” Rudolf told News Corp. He elaborated on his philosophy, describing himself as someone who embraces “free love” and is open to relationships where partners can explore connections with others, provided there is mutual freedom and understanding. This approach, he explained, stems from past experiences where monogamy did not meet his expectations.

“I’m not a traditional male in any sense, I’m all about free love and if someone wants to experience that with me and have an open sort of style relationship, that’s what I’ve had in the past and it works great for me,” Rudolf explained. He indicated a willingness to accept his partner seeing other people, contingent on receiving the same liberty. “I think I just love love too much,” he added, suggesting a broad capacity for affection.

Further detailing his perspective on open relationships, Rudolf expressed that he would not enforce strict boundaries regarding communication about other partners. “There’s no real boundaries from my point of view. I’ll even ask her questions because I like hearing stories,” he said. However, he also clarified that he is not entirely ruling out the possibility of a monogamous relationship, noting that his past attempts at monogamy were unsuccessful, and his current open approach has been more fulfilling.

Evolution of Sexuality and Self-Expression

Rudolf’s latest statements build upon earlier discussions about his sexuality, which have evolved over time. In 2022, he described himself as heterosexual but “open to both genders,” sharing that he had experienced same-sex encounters and felt comfortable expressing affection irrespective of gender. “Sexuality is very fluid. I’ve been out and kissed many gay men, kissed many straight women and kissed many gay women,” he told the Sydney Morning Herald at the time.

He further elaborated on this fluidity, stating, “I’m not a one-stop shop. Love is love, and I love to share it with everyone. You could say I’m open to both genders but only attracted to one of them.” These comments were made in the context of supporting the NRL’s pride round, highlighting his inclusive stance on love and relationships. Rudolf’s upbringing, which included close relationships with LGBTQI individuals, has also been cited as influential in shaping his views.

Context and Previous Statements

Rudolf’s open discussions about his personal life and relationships come after a period of increased attention on players’ personal conduct and public statements. His remarks about seeking multiple partners follow a controversial 2021 post-match comment where he stated his intention to drink “1,000 beers” before visiting a nightclub to “try and pull something – anything will do.” This statement drew an official warning from the NRL, with chief executive Andrew Abdo deeming it inappropriate. Rudolf later clarified that he had not specified “women” in that particular comment.

In a separate interview, Rudolf also addressed his views on fatherhood, expressing a lack of desire to become a parent. He cited a preference for personal freedom and a belief that he might be too selfish to raise children. Rudolf, who was conceived via sperm donation and raised by his mother, expressed a desire to travel and experience life without the responsibilities of parenthood, contrasting his choices with the perceived burdens faced by friends with families.

Future with Cronulla Sharks

Away from his personal life disclosures, Rudolf indicated a strong likelihood of remaining with the Cronulla Sharks beyond his current contract. He expressed a desire to play for a club where he feels valued and wanted, suggesting that Cronulla is the place he sees his future. “I want to be somewhere where I’m wanted. That’s where I want to be,” he stated. “I think I’m going to be in Cronulla.”

Rudolf’s willingness to openly discuss his evolving views on relationships and sexuality positions him as a distinctive voice within professional sports, contributing to broader conversations about identity, love, and personal freedom.