Dustin Martin makes a shock move that confirms many fans’ suspicions about his retirement from footy

Richmond legend Dustin Martin has met with Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick, confirming fans’ theories that his recent retirement wouldn’t last long.

The 33-year-old announced on August 6 that his active football career was over, after which he bid an emotional farewell to the Tigers fans during the final game of the year on August 24.

Earlier this year, football legend Brendan Fevola spoke for many fans when he said his retirement was just a smokescreen to allow ‘Dusty’ to rejoin his old coach Hardwick after surprising Richmond by retiring in 2023.

Now Martin has fueled speculation about his future by talking to Hardwick in the offseason as he and the Suns begin negotiations for him to continue playing in 2025.

“We can confirm that Dustin has had a conversation with the club and we will both have further discussions to understand if it is a good fit for the Gold Coast and for Dustin,” Suns chief executive Wayne Campbell said. The age.

The superstar and the club discussed a two-year deal earlier this season, the publication reported.

Because Martin has retired, Richmond will not receive compensation from the Gold Coast if the move actually goes ahead.

In July, Hardwick refused to rule out rumours that the two-time Norm Smith Medal winner would join him on the Glitter Strip in 2025.

Martin is pictured giving an emotional farewell to Richmond supporters during the club’s final game of the season, having confirmed his ‘retirement’ just weeks earlier

That match saw the Tigers take on the Suns, with Hardwick embracing his great friend (pictured) as they marked the supposed end of his days as an AFL player

“Dustin is a contracted player at Richmond. That’s obviously something for Dustin to decide and Richmond to work through,” he said.

‘He’s a very, very good player, there’s no doubt about that. And any club would be crazy not to make an evaluation at some point.

‘Like 17 other clubs, we are always looking for good players.

‘Gold Coast is no different. Those list management conversations are at the end of the year.’

In June, Martin’s manager Ralph Carr said his client still had plenty of footballing potential, but injuries and a decline in form had led to speculation he would retire soon.

“People forget very quickly that he was on the verge of becoming All Australian last year. Champion Data said his stats were unbelievable. That was only six months ago,” Carr said.

“I think his body is in good shape and it would be a shame if Dustin retired. The big man still has a lot in him. I think it’s very fitting that people call him the People’s Champion.

“He’s the punters’ champion. They love him, it doesn’t matter if they’re Richmond fans. The punters love him, whether they’re Collingwood or Essendon fans, they just love the way he plays.”

Martin will play his last game for the Tigers on August 3. Six days later he announced his retirement, effective immediately.

Martin couldn’t contain his emotions as he waved goodbye to Tigers fans at the MCG last month after they lost to the Suns.

Just as he did after his 300th game in June, Martin gave a brief interview to his former Richmond teammate Jack Riewoldt.

‘[I’m] quite emotional, [it’s] “It’s just pretty surreal,” said a clearly emotional Martin.

‘[It] Feels a bit weird. I think it will really sink in after today.

‘As everyone knows, I love the club so much, I love you [the fans] all so much.

“I’m going to miss this place so much, I’m so thankful to be a Tiger.”

When Riewoldt asked him to name a moment that stands out in his career, ‘Dusty’ replied: ‘There have been too many great moments along the way, but you can’t just flatten the OG in 2017. That was pretty special.’

When asked to give one last message to the Tiger Army, Martin gave the following response: “I love you all so much.

“I am so loved and supported. I love you all so much. Thank you for everything.”