NRL player in hot water over 'inappropriate' remarks about women

Cronulla forward Toby Rudolf will be given a formal warning by the NRL after being accused of making degrading comments about women during a post-match interview over the weekend.

The Sharks star was being interviewed as part of Fox Sports' coverage after his side's round one win against rivals the Dragons on Sunday evening.

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Rudolf garnered a few laughs when revealing that he would be celebrating the 32-18 win over Cronulla's fierce rivals by having "1000 beers".

However, his joke took a distasteful twist when he mentioned going out to popular Cronulla establishment Northies in the evening.

"Go to Northies, try and pull something - anything will do," Rudolf joked.

"Nah honestly it's all about recovery these days."

Laughter could be heard on the Fox Sports broadcast, but NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said on Tuesday morning that it was anything but a laughing matter.

The league boss told AAP he was "very disappointed" in Rudolf's comments and intended to issue a formal warning.

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"I was very disappointed with Toby's comments, they were inappropriate and should not have been said," Abdo told AAP.

"We are going to issue Toby with a formal warning and I know the club are going to counsel him so there is not a repeat.

"Respect for women is one of the foundations of our society and our players, as role models, need to be leaders in this area."

The interview was published across various media outlets and social media on Sunday night and Monday, prompting the NRL and Cronulla to act.

While players showing their personality in interviews is considered good promotion for the game, the NRL has drawn the line at degrading comments towards women.

It is understood the Sharks were also concerned by Rudolf's comments with chief executive Dino Mezzatesta speaking to the 25-year-old on Monday.

Additional education is set to be offered and the club have been contacted for comment.

The NRL's swift action follows their recent reinforcement of the importance of respect for women and tougher penalties for players found to have committed violence against women.

with AAP

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