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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
Sport
Guardian sport

American dream: when Australian sport tries to crack the US market

Australia Russell Crowe Hugh Jackman NRL America VFL Paul Hogan Los Angeles
Actor and co-owner of South Sydney Rabbitohs Russell Crowe prior to the World Club Challenge against in 2015.
Actor and co-owner of South Sydney Rabbitohs Russell Crowe prior to the World Club Challenge against in 2015. Photograph: Gareth Copley/Getty Images

The NRL could be on the verge of an American Dream, a season opener with the potential to make rugby league relevant in the United States. The competition has reportedly revived discussions about staging a historic premiership game between Manly and South Sydney in Los Angeles to open the 2023 campaign. Clubs will be banking on the Hollywood pull power of Rabbitohs owner Russell Crowe and Sea Eagles supporter Hugh Jackman three years after plans in 2019 fell through.

But it is not the first time Australian sports have tried to gain exposure and relevance in the lucrative US market.

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