Silver Ferns netballer Maria Folau (nee Tutaia) is throwing support behind her husband Israel Folau over his anti-gay comments.
The Australian international recently sparked outrage after suggesting in a comment posted to his Instagram account that gay people would be condemned to "hell" unless they "repent" for their sins.
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Folau's Instagram post was deleted, but the screengrab was shared on social media and has since caused widespread outrage among fans and media.
He also posted tweeted a Bible verse seemingly alluding to being persecuted for his Christian views.
"Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake."
Now the heat has died down on the issue, and Maria has taken to social media - appearing to support her husband's previous comments.
"Stand up with god no matter what," her post read.
"Don't be afraid to stand up for the truth, even if that means you will be standing alone."
The post and over 4,000 likes and hundreds of comments - one from her husband, who replied: "Amen babe. God is the only one we follow and bow down to."
Folau is a devout Christian, having been raised Mormon, and followed the Assemblies of God fellowship since his family converted in 2011.
He openly admitted he also voted against marriage equality in Australia's postal vote last year.
Israel has met with Rugby Australia CEO Raelene Castle and NSW Rugby counterpart Andrew Hore to discuss the fallout from his post - however, he has not been formally sanctioned by Rugby Australia.
The 29-year-old is off contract with Rugby Australia at the end of the year, and he has yet to decide what he will do beyond the 2018 season, although there are reportedly many rugby and league clubs are chasing his services.
Meanwhile, Maria is helping the Silver Ferns prepare for their Commonwealth Games semi-final against Australia.
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