Richmond Tigers superstar Dustin Martin today ended months of speculation over his playing future by announcing it to his team-mates at Punt Road.
After three championships and 15 seasons with the Tigers, Martin has announced his retirement effective immediately.
Martin, 33, played 302 games and scored 338 goals.
Martin, known for his trademark “no discussion” attitude, announced his retirement on Tuesday morning in his characteristically subdued manner: quietly, without a press conference or farewell match.
Martin was linked with a successful career at the Gold Coast Suns, where he linked up with former coach and close friend Damien Hardwick.
But instead, he will retire as a one-club player, something he couldn’t be prouder of.
“It’s hard to put into words what Richmond Football Club means to me. I love this place so much,” Martin said in a statement released by the club.
Dustin Martin played 15 seasons with the Richmond Tigers and won three championships
Martin will go down in history as one of the greatest AFL players of all time and as the favourite son of the Richmond Tigers
‘I will be eternally grateful for the love and support I have received from the people here.
“To my teammates, the brotherhood we all share is what I value most, as well as the bond with the staff and coaches… thank you all.
‘To my family and friends, thank you for your unconditional love and support.
“To the Tiger Army, I have always felt so loved and supported throughout my career and for that I will be forever grateful. The memories we have created together will stay with me forever. Thank you.”
AFL fans from all clubs expressed their gratitude en masse for one of the greatest footballers to ever put on a football boot.
‘Absolutely one of the best footballers I have ever had the pleasure of watching. His accolades and achievements speak volumes. Well done Dusty,’ posted one fan.
“How lucky we are to live in a time where we can watch Dustin Martin play Aussie Rules Football,” added another.
“Thank you Dustin Martin, an absolute legend of the game,” posted another.
Martin made his debut in 2010 and quickly developed into a dynamic midfielder.
Martin is known for his powerful kicks and exceptional ball control, and his prowess on the pitch earned him the prestigious Brownlow Medal in 2017.
That same year he led Richmond to their first AFL Premiership in 37 years and also won the Norm Smith Medal for best player in the Grand Final.
Martin, 33, played 302 games and scored 338 goals in his 15-season career with Richmond
The Tigers star has turned down the chance to team up with former coach Damien Hardwick at the Gold Coast Suns again in 2025
Richmond CEO Brendon Gale said it is difficult to put into words the immense contribution Martin has made to the club.
“So much has been said about Dustin’s impact on our club and the league, but I think it’s the joy he’s brought to the Tiger Army and those around him that is most meaningful,” Gale said.
‘Three premierships and the best performances on each of those scales will always remain a legend for him. And rightly so, because that, together with his unique charisma, will make him most famous.’
‘But I think Dustin would be most proud of what he’s accomplished playing for a team… our team – and the tremendous role he’s been able to play within that system, which has allowed him to become the football genius he was always destined to be.
‘That genius was most evident when the stakes were highest, when the crowd was loudest, when all eyes were on him, and when the moments called for a hero.
“Dustin did it his way, and we were all so lucky to be Richmonders during his period of dominance. So, all I can say on behalf of everyone associated with our great club is thank you to an icon. To our icon.