Dustin Martin has spoken with the Suns amid speculation he will resume his AFL career on the Gold Coast. The Suns say they will have further conversations with Martin about whether "it's a good fit for the Gold Coast Suns and for Dustin".

Martin announced his retirement last month but has regularly been linked to a move to the Suns, where he could again join forces with Hardwick. The pair were central figures in Richmond's golden era, with three-time Norm Smith medallist Martin the star in the 2017, 2019 and 2020 premiership-winning teams coached by Hardwick.

The news that Martin is considering a return to the AFL has sent shockwaves through the league, with many fans wondering if he can recapture his former glory. Martin has been plagued by injuries in recent years, and his form has dipped somewhat, but he remains a highly skilled player. However, the Suns will need to consider the 33-year-old's level of motivation to extend his career into a 16th season.

Martin played 302 matches for the Tigers, with his final appearance coming in round 21 against North Melbourne. He announced his retirement just days later. Martin managed just 13 matches this year and Gold Coast would have to consider the 33-year-old'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. Hardwick stepped down as Richmond coach in May last year before accepting a six-year deal to coach Gold Coast just three months later. In July, Hardwick 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."

Dustin Martin's Meeting With Gold Coast Suns

The meeting between Martin and the Suns is a significant development in the saga of his potential return to the AFL. Martin's manager, Ralph Carr, has confirmed that the two parties have been in discussions for some time. The Suns are said to be keen on signing Martin to a two-year deal, and they are willing to pay him a significant salary. However, they will need to manage their salary cap carefully.

The Suns have star players in the prime of their careers, like Ben King, Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson. They have just re-signed Mac Andrew on one of the biggest deals in history. Another Richmond premiership player in Daniel Rioli has asked to be traded there.

So a deal is not certain. But the fact is Dustin Martin wants to play AFL football in 2025 and the Suns have expressed an interest in making it happen.

The Potential Impact of Martin's Return

Martin's return to the AFL would be a huge boost for the Gold Coast Suns. The Suns have struggled to make an impact in recent years, but Martin's arrival would instantly make them a contender. Martin's leadership, experience, and star power would be invaluable to the Suns.

Could This Be a Retirement Backflip? The Details

After an emotional farewell to Richmond fans in their final home game of the 2024 season, Martin's retirement was perceived to be permanent. However, the possibility of a reunion with Hardwick seems to have rekindled his desire to play on. According to reports, the duo met in the offseason to discuss a potential move to the Gold Coast. With no official retirement paperwork filed, Martin's status is essentially that of a free agent.

The Suns, on the other hand, have confirmed that they have had conversations with Martin and are open to the possibility of him joining the club. Martin has expressed a desire to play for the Gold Coast, and it appears that the move is not about money, but rather about a fresh start and the opportunity to play under Hardwick again.

Martin's Legacy at Richmond

Martin will forever be known as a Richmond legend, having played a pivotal role in the club's recent resurgence. He was a key player in the Tigers' three premierships, and he won three Norm Smith Medals, making him one of the greatest finals players of all time. He also added a Brownlow Medal with his 2017 title. He remains the only player even to win the Norm Smith medal three times. Hawthorn great Luke Hodge (2008, 2014), Adelaide legend Andrew McLeod (1997, 1998) and Hawks hero Gary Ayres (1986, 1988) are the only other players to have won the medal more than once.

Looking Ahead

It remains to be seen if Martin will actually join the Gold Coast Suns. However, the fact that he is in talks with the club suggests that he is seriously considering a return to the AFL. If he does join the Suns, it will be a huge coup for the club. It will be a fascinating storyline to watch unfold in the coming months.

Martin's Departure From Richmond

Martin's retirement from Richmond was unexpected. The club and his fans were left in shock when he announced his decision. However, it is clear that Martin has been considering a move away from Richmond for some time, and he may have already made up his mind about his future. The meeting with Hardwick and the Suns is just another step in this process.

The Future of Martin and the Gold Coast Suns

The meeting between Martin and the Suns is a major development in the saga of his potential return to the AFL. Martin is a free agent, and the Suns are free to sign him without the need for a trade. However, there are still many hurdles to overcome before Martin joins the Suns. The Suns will need to make sure that he is a good fit for the club, and they will need to manage their salary cap carefully.

The Suns are hopeful that Martin will join the club, but they are also aware that there is a chance that he may decide to stay retired. The Suns are aware that securing Martin's signature would be a significant coup for the club. Martin is a highly talented player who could make a real difference to the Suns' fortunes.

The next few weeks will be crucial for both Martin and the Suns. The Suns are ready to offer Martin a contract and a chance to finish his career on a high. The ball is now in Martin's court.