Sydney Roosters captain James Tedesco has revealed that swapping takeaway meals for his wife Maria’s home-cooked Greek-inspired cuisine has played a major role in prolonging his career at the top level of the NRL.
The 33-year-old fullback, who returned to the New South Wales State of Origin side this year, admitted that before meeting Maria in 2019, his diet largely revolved around Uber Eats and pub meals.
Now, he says, the transformation in his eating habits has helped him maintain the fitness and recovery needed to compete among the game’s elite.
“Before I met her I was Uber Eats, I was going out, so the diet has improved,” Tedesco said.
“I think it’s helped with my longevity for sure. Putting that good food in your body regularly, breakfast, lunch and dinner, she’s in there whipping stuff up for me.
“I’m very grateful, very lucky that she enjoys it. And she’s even juggling two kids while she’s doing it.”
Maria, who shares recipes and family meals on TikTok and Instagram, grew up in a Greek family deeply involved in the hospitality industry, where fresh, wholesome food and large family feasts were part of everyday life.
She said Tedesco’s eating habits changed dramatically once their relationship began.
“He was just always eating takeaway when we met,” Maria recalled.
“Home-cooked meals taste so much better and make you feel so much better from the inside and out. I like to know all the ingredients, especially before and after a game.”
Maria has also encouraged her husband to broaden his palate, introducing foods such as fish, mushrooms and beetroot while reducing processed meals and relying on fresh ingredients to aid recovery.
Tedesco admits he was aware of the importance of nutrition throughout his career but says having someone dedicated to preparing balanced meals has made a significant difference.
“I tried my best when I didn’t have Maria around, but who knows what they’re cooking it in at the pubs and Uber Eats,” he said.
“That’s more like a treat now after a game. Other than that, it’s home-cooked meals most nights.”
The Roosters skipper has missed very little football since the pair met and believes his improved diet has been a key factor in extending a career that has now spanned more than 15 seasons.
For Tedesco, the biggest recruit of his career wasn’t signed on the field—it was marrying into a Greek family where good food is a way of life.
SOURCE DT