Some of the biggest names in the NRL are sending congratulations to Bradman Best after the Newcastle Knights star popped the question to partner Kayla Fenech. Best got down on one knee at Krinklewood Estate in the Hunter Valley on Saturday.
The barnstorming centre reportedly got the blessing of Kayla’s father – Aussie boxing legend Jeff Fenech – before they all jetted out to Las Vegas for the Knights’ win over the Cowboys in Round 1 last weekend. Kayla posted a series of photos of the beautiful engagement on social media on Sunday, writing: “Here’s to forever.”
Knights teammates Dylan Lucas and Mat Croker joined Roosters star Angus Crichton and Warriors forward Mitch Barnett in sending messages of congratulations. Panthers winger Brian To’o and former Knights player Adam Clune also commented.
Best is the second NRL star to get engaged in two weeks, joining Broncos winger Deine Mariner in popping the question to the daughter of an Aussie sporting icon. Mariner got engaged to Grace Kama last week, who is the daughter of surfing champion Mark Occhilupo.
Bradman Best had to win over Jeff Fenech
Best and Fenech have been together since 2023, and welcomed their first child together last year. Kayla has previously spoken of how Best won Jeff over after the boxing champion was initially wary of her dating a footy star.
“They are so happy,” Jeff said last year. “And I’m so proud of both of them. The baby is going to have some great genes. And they’ll be great parents. Bradman is a great fella who will make a great dad.
“I’d always warned my girls about going out with league players. I’ve been knocking around with footballers all my life. They’re young and they love going out and having a good time.
Kayla told her dad at the beginning: “You can’t judge a book by its cover. Footy players can get a bad reputation. Bradman is so different. He’s a good person, very down to earth, and treats me really well. Just an all-round good person with a big heart. He’s actually perfect
“
Best has played 106 NRL games since debuting for the Knights in 2019. He’s also played two State of Origin games for NSW and was picked in the Kangaroos squad for last year’s Ashes series against England.
