Why this VERY rare photo of Dustin Martin enjoying himself has the footy rumour mill in overdrive about Tigers great’s shocking retirement backflip
A rare photo of Richmond legend Dustin Martin relaxing on the Gold Coast has all but confirmed fan theories that his recent retirement was never going to last.
The 33-year-old announced his playing career was over on August 6, then bid an emotional farewell to Tigers fans at the club’s final game of the year on August 24.
But fans have long held suspicions about his retirement as he was linked to the Gold Coast and a reunion with former Richmond coach Damien Hardwick.
Martin, who is notoriously private about his personal life and very rarely pops up on social media, was recently snapped in a photo with friends at Burleigh Heads in Queensland.
Collingwood cult hero Dane Swan posted the group photo of the footy star attending a baby shower.
Martin played just 13 games last season due to calf and back injuries, while there were concerns surrounding his desire to play top level footy.
The Suns will consider Martin’s motivation levels before tabling a one-year offer, which is understood to be valued at considerably less than his 2024 deal with the Tigers.
Martin would reportedly have to accept a salary amounting to less than a quarter of his previous contract, with the Suns operating under a tight cap after securing Mac Andrew on a lucrative deal.
Dustin Martin (second from left) has been photographed with Collingwood great Dane Swan (third from left) on the Gold Coast amid rumours he will play for the Suns next season
Martin is pictured during his emotional farewell to Richmond supporters at the club’s last game of the season after confirming his ‘retirement’ just weeks beforehand
Gold Coast may offer Martin less than $300,000 in what would truly test his desire to continue playing in the AFL.
The saga could have a knock-on effect on Richmond’s negotiations with the Suns over their move for Tigers star Daniel Rioli.
Richmond are demanding pick six as part of a trade for Rioli, with only preliminary discussions having taken place between the two clubs at the time of writing.
Martin wants to leave Melbourne and has sought solace on the Gold Coast during off-seasons in years gone by.
In June, Martin’s manager Ralph Carr said his client had plenty of football left in him as injuries and a drop in form prompted speculation that his retirement was imminent.
That match saw the Tigers take on the Suns, with Hardwick embracing his great mate (pictured) as they marked the supposed end of his days as an AFL player
‘People forget really quickly that he was on the verge of being All Australian last year. Champion Data said his stats were unbelievable. That was only six months ago,’ Carr said.
‘My view is that his body is in good condition and it would be a shame for Dustin to finish up. The great man has got a lot left in him. I think that people calling him the People’s Champion is really appropriate.
‘He is the punters’ champion. They love him, it doesn’t matter if they are Richmond fans. The punters love him, whether they are Collingwood or Essendon supporters, they just enjoy the way he plays.’
