Mary Fowler withdrew from Australia's friendlies against Germany and Haiti, citing "personal circumstances" without giving further details.
Nathan Cleary, her boyfriend, wrote a tribute to the Matildas star.
Cleary's dramatic finals injury has shifted his attention to recovery, delaying contract talks with Penrith.
Prioritising a Round 1 return next year over a contract makes Cleary extremely likely to become a free agent on November 1.
That would allow rival NRL clubs, including the PNG Chiefs, to make offers. The Chiefs' bid would have the advantage of being tax-free.
Cleary had previously been expected to re-sign with the Panthers, but the delay could increase competition and his reported price, which has reached $1.7 million a year.
The Panthers have reportedly asked his management what salary he would seek if he were hypothetically open to rival offers.
"Sources with knowledge of the situation not authorised to speak publicly confirmed Cleary's management has since informed the Panthers of the figure."