Richmond Retains Iconic No. 4 Guernsey

Richmond Football Club has decided to leave Dustin Martin's iconic No. 4 guernsey vacant for the 2025 season, despite interest from their No. 1 draft pick, Sam Lalor, who had hoped to wear it. Lalor will instead don the No. 22 jersey, previously worn by Jacob Hopper, who has switched to No. 2. The club also opted not to assign the numbers of other legends, Jack Riewoldt (8), Trent Cotchin (9), and Shane Edwards (10), to ease pressure on new players as they transition into the AFL. This decision reflects a shift in club culture, as traditionally, top draft picks are given numbers previously worn by club greats. Richmond's strategy aims to support Lalor and fellow rookies in their debut season. The move follows Martin's emotional farewell after the 2024 season and symbolizes respect for the club's recent history and its champions.