'They caught up': Dustin Martin linked with model Jessica Gomes
AFL superstar Dustin Martin has been romantically linked to Aussie fashion model Jessica Gomes.
According to the Herald Sun, Martin and Gomes have been spotted on a number of dinner dates in recent months.
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"The pair, according to the rumour, had caught up for dinner several times this year, although details about where and when were not shared," the report states.
However neither of them are willing to confirm the news.
Gomes told the Herald: “I am so sorry, but I can’t comment on this. I don’t talk about my private life”.
Martin’s manager Ralph Carr also declined to comment on the rumours.
Gomes appeared in Sports Illustrated's swimsuit edition from 2008 to 2015 before becoming a fashion ambassador for David Jones.
She has been linked to several other high-profile stars including Twilight actor Xavier Samuel, Wallabies player Rocky Elsom, businessman Sebastian Drapac and Formula One driver Daniel Ricciardo.
She most recently appeared on Dancing With The Stars.
Dustin Martin ruled out of Bulldogs blockbuster
Meanwhile, Richmond will be without Martin for their crunch game against the AFL ladder-leading Western Bulldogs, with the superstar struck down by concussion.
Martin copped a stray arm to the head during the third quarter of the Tigers' 34-point defeat to Melbourne on Saturday night and sat out the final term on the bench.
He will miss the Bulldogs match under new AFL concussion protocols, which mandate an automatic 12-day stint on the sidelines.
"He'll obviously miss next week, which is disappointing," Tigers coach Damien Hardwick said.
"But that's the lie of the land at the moment and player health and wellbeing is paramount for the AFL and our medical staff, so we'll abide by that and he'll take his 12 days."
Martin had been quiet against Melbourne before he was hurt, gathering just eight disposals under the watchful eye of Demons stopper Michael Hibberd.
Hardwick revealed the dynamic star has been battling a foot complaint that has taken away some of his speed and power this season.
"He has had some foot issues that have not been significant, but it has impacted him, and last week it was a little bit the same," Hardwick said.
"In fairness, although he's going to miss a little bit of time (because of concussion), it might be the best thing for him.
"He's a proud man; he'll never put up his hand and complain, but the fact of the matter is he hasn't been his explosive self because of that. He'll get better."
with AAP
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