Report: Martin meets with Suns coach Hardwick about continuing AFL career

Dustin Martin has met with Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick about a potential return to AFL footy, reports the Herald Sun’s Mark Robinson.

The 33-year-old retired in August following 302 games and three premierships with Richmond, but his meeting with Hardwick has added to speculation that he could play for the Suns in 2025.

Robinson’s report also stated that Gold Coast CEO Mark Evans confirmed the club and Martin are in contact, stating that the ex-Tiger reached out to the club.

Martin and Gold Coast last spoke mid-season.

The midfielder/forward can walk to Gold Coast without needing a trade having retired from AFL footy. He also would have been an unrestricted free agent this off-season if he hadn’t made a retirement call.

He played 278 of his Richmond games under Hardwick, who has been in charge at Gold Coast for a year.