Nathan Buckley provides his immediate reaction to Dustin Martin's retirement call

Nathan Buckley has given his immediate reaction to Richmond champion Dustin Martin’s retirement.

The three-time Norm Smith Medallist and future Hall of Famer has called time effective immediately, finishing on 302 career games.

Buckley believes Martin can rest easily knowing how great his contribution to the game has been.

RICHMOND SUPERSTAR DUSTIN MARTIN ANNOUNCES HIS RETIREMENT

“You could go to the, ‘this is sad, we’re going to say goodbye to a champion’. I think this is a celebration opportunity,” Buckley said on SEN Mornings.

“I’m so glad we got game 300 and that he was able to absorb all of that and let all of that in because he’s been so stoic externally. In many ways he’s kept himself fiercely private, which I’ve loved from afar.

“What he’s done on the field and what he was able to do with his club over a long period of time was profound.

“He’s played the sixth most games ever for Richmond and he’s kicked the 11th most goals ever for Richmond. He’s done everything there is to do in the game and he can rest easy. He emptied himself out and contributed everything he had to give.

“It was evident as this year played out that he wasn’t certain on his motivation and his reasoning to play the game. I think he played the last season and a bit still working out what exactly he wants to do and now he’s worked it out, I think that’s great for him.

“I think long-suffering Richmond supporters were able to break through and it was a combination of vulnerability from the coach and Damien Hardwick and the leaders in Trent Cotchin and Jack Riewoldt and then when it mattered it was the absolute star power of Dustin Martin who put the cream on the cake.

“Dusty has had a profound influence on what Richmond has done. The fact that we get the chance to stop and celebrate what he’s done is great.”