A 15-year AFL career has come to an end, with legendary Richmond player Dustin Martin announcing his retirement from the game, effective immediately.
The 33-year-old played 302 games in the yellow and black, booted 338 goals, and picked up a number of accolades along the way.
Martin confirmed the news to his teammates on Tuesday, ending speculation that he may have moved to the Gold Coast Suns to reunite with former coach Damien Hardwick.
“It is hard to put into words what the Richmond Football Club means to me. I love this place so much,” Martin said.
“I will be forever grateful for the love and the support I have received from the people here.
“To my teammates, the brotherhood that we all share is what I value most, as is the bond with the staff and coaches. Thank you to all of you.
“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 that we have created together will live with me forever. Thank you.”
A triple premiership player, “Dusty” was awarded the Norm Smith medal in each of those grand finals. He is also a Brownlow medallist, four-time All-Australian, three-time Gary Ayers (best finals player) medallist and dual Jack Dyer (Richmond best and fairest) medal winner.
His career began in 2010 when he debuted for the Tigers in round one and will retire, having played the sixth-most games for Richomd, only behind Kevin Bartlett, Jack Riewoldt, Jack Dyer, Trent Cotchin and Shane Edwards.
Richmond chief executive Brendon Gale said it was hard to put into words the contribution Martin had made to the club.
“So much has been said about Dustin’s impact on our Club and the competition, but more than anything, and put simply, I think it is the joy that he gave the Tiger Army and those around him that might mean the most,” Gale said.
“Dustin did it his way, and we are all just so lucky to have been Richmond people during his era 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.”