Dustin Martin rumours of AFL return gather momentum after meeting Gold Coast Suns coach Damien Hardwick
The Richmond ties remain strong for two of their greats as reports circulate that Dustin Martin is set to link with his former mentor Damien Hardwick and reignite his career at the Suns.
The pair have reportedly met, with Hardwick out to convince his former premiership-winning superstar to go around again on the Gold Coast.
According to the Herald Sun, Martin and Hardwick have been in post-season talks, intensifying speculation Dusty may join the Suns for the 2025 season.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Martin, 32, would become a Suns player as a free agent with reports Martin is leaning towards continuing his AFL career have growing in recent weeks.
The cost for the Suns would be Martin’s wage — estimated to be $500,000-$700,000.
Martin, 33, played the last of his 302 games for the Tigers on August 3 and announced his retirement two days later.
It’s believed Martin has spent recent weeks weighing up whether he has the motivation to continue playing.
Hardwick and Martin were central figures in Richmond’s golden era, with three-time Norm Smith Medallist Martin the star in the 2017, 2019 and 2020 premierships.
Martin managed just 13 games this year and Gold Coast would have to consider the champion’s level of motivation to extend his career into a 16th season.
Arguably the biggest name in football, Martin would be unlikely to receive any extra money as an AFL ambassador in Queensland.
He has been notoriously media-shy and reluctant to speak publicly throughout his career.
Hardwick stepped down as Richmond coach in May last year before accepting a six-year deal to coach Gold Coast just three months later.
The 52-year-old in July confirmed a level of interest in luring Martin to the Suns.
“He’s a really, really good player, there’s no doubt about that, and every single club would be crazy if they didn’t sit there and at some stage make an assessment,” Hardwick said.
“Like 17 other clubs, we’re always looking for good players.
“Gold Coast is no different. Those list management calls will get made at the back-end of the year.”
