Newly single Jules Neale has opened up about her recent marriage breakdown to AFL star Lachie Neale, revealing that a return home to Western Australia earlier this month provided the perfect "reset" she needed to kickstart 2026. Landing in Melbourne alongside friend Gabby Morrone to attend the Australian Open, Neale told the Herald Sun she was thrilled for her debut at the Aussie slam as she reflected on a challenging period.
Embracing a Fresh Start in Melbourne
"This is my first Australian Open and I’m loving Melbourne’s vibe in January, I’m so excited to be here," Neale said. She acknowledged the difficulties of the past few months but emphasised the positive impact of family support. "Yes the last few months have been a lot but being back in Perth with family has really helped me reset for 2026," she explained.
Neale added, "Gabby and I are sitting on centre court tonight watching, and honestly I’m loving being back in Melbourne and watching another sport." She has been invited to sit court-side at Tuesday’s night session as a VIP guest of Piper-Heidsick, marking a glamorous entry into the tennis world.
Stylish Appearance Amidst the Heat
With temperatures tipped to reach upwards of 44C in the Victorian capital, Jules dressed light for the occasion. She rocked a baby pink corset and shorts by Melbourne designer Viktoria and Woods, posing for pre-match photos from The Ritz Carlton. Captioning the images on social media, she wrote, "Girls just wanna have fun.. at the AO ?" showcasing her upbeat mood.
Leaning on Friends for Support
Jules has leaned on close friends for support following the public split. It was alleged that her once close friend Tess Crosley had been engaged in an affair with her husband, adding to the personal turmoil. Late last week, Jules was pictured enjoying a glass of wine with Lizzie Stock—the wife of Dockers player Andy Brayshaw—and another friend at a Perth restaurant, highlighting her network of support.
Meanwhile, Lachie Neale, the dual Brownlow medallist, touched down at Perth Airport on Thursday night, declining to comment on the purpose of his trip. As the former couple continue their lives apart, a For Sale sign has been spotted at their former Brisbane residence.
Property Details and Family Life
The luxury Hamptons-style home is expected to fetch up to $3.35 million, according to Domain’s property value estimate. CEO Will Torres of Torres Property told PerthNow earlier this month he expected the home could be worth "something in the low to mid $3 millions." Lachie and Jules purchased the newly renovated property, situated in one of Brisbane’s peaceful eastern suburbs, for $2.43 million in July 2022 at auction.
The couple share two young children: daughter Piper, aged 4, and son Freddie, aged 1. As Jules enjoys her time at the Australian Open, this event symbolises a new beginning, blending celebrity intrigue with personal resilience in the public eye.
