EXCLUSIVE: Carlton star Tom De Koning on contract talks, surfing and new-found love for fashion

As Tom De Koning tries to lift the Blues from finals disappointment last year, speculation around his worth will continue to float around him.

Just last week, before Carlton's round one capitulation, afl.com.au reported the Blues have offered him a seven-year deal worth around $7.5 million. However, St Kilda's offer is more over the same period.

Speaking to Wide World of Sports after a fashion shoot with Superdry, the Carlton ruckman opened up on how he's handling the million-dollar price tag, his routine outside of football and why he's evolved since being drafted in 2017.

READ MORE: 'Disgraceful' Eels put on blast over 'weak decisions'

READ MORE: 'Hell of a player': All Blacks coach fans Ponga flames

READ MORE: Rot to continue as 'bad situation' festers despite axing

De Koning's future was a major talking point in the off season and will continue to bubble away in the background as he enters the final year of his contract.

He shunned interest from elsewhere in 2023 to sign on with the Blues, but now that sense of déjà vu has arrived again.

De Koning admits reading into the talk around his future "doesn't really serve me".

"I understand that there's a lot of talk about my future, and it's something that comes with the territory when you're in the public eye," he told WWOS before round one.

"But I try to focus on the things I can control, which is my performance on the field and my day-to-day routine. I've learned over time that getting caught up in the outside noise  whether it's about big offers or expectations doesn't really serve me. 

"In a way, the partnership with Superdry ties into that mindset. The brand represents staying true to yourself, embracing confidence, and not getting distracted by external pressures. It's a reminder to stay grounded and focus on what matters.

"For me, that means continuing to work hard, improve every day, and not let the noise around me influence my approach to the game. 

"I've got a great support system around me – coaches, family, and friends, who help me stay focused. They remind me to enjoy the journey and stay focused on the process.

"At the end of the day, I trust that my efforts will speak for themselves, both on and off the field." 

For De Koning, that routine he refers to is all about balance.

There's three main pillars: surfing, ocean and coffee.

"It's about finding space to disconnect from the intensity of the game and focus on things that bring me peace ... plus, it's a reminder that there's life beyond football, which keeps me grounded and motivated," he said.

Part of that has come from an "evolved" routine from 2017 when he was taken at pick 30 in the national draft.

His focus was "purely on the game", before finding that balance. Now he's a superstar.

"Being able to switch off from footy and invest time in other things, like surfing or enjoying a good cup of coffee, has a huge impact on my performance," he said.

And fashion has now become the fourth pillar.

It's part of a growing trend in all codes across Australia. Instagram has become a popular spot for players to show a side to them not seen in the on-field environment.

Whether Australian sport ever reaches the American style wear what you want to game day ethos remains to be seen.

In 2020, the Penrith Panthers entered training with their own style. Isaah Yeo fronted up as Ricky Bobby, while others followed suit.

However, clubs have a responsibility to sponsors and the club polo is here to stay.

De Koning's fashion shoot was a rare opportunity to showcase his interest outside of the football environment.

"It was a really exciting experience to be a part of the Superdry campaign. It was my first-time modelling for a fashion shoot, and I honestly had a great time," he said.

"The whole process was a lot of fun, and working with the Superdry team made it feel pretty natural. Fashion is definitely something I've taken an interest in, both on and off the field. When it comes to footy, we don't have quite the same pre-game fashion scene that you might see in American sports.

"But I think it's cool to express yourself through your style, whether it's on the field or in everyday life."