Richmond champion Dustin Martin has claimed the 2017 Brownlow Medal, following an explosive season for this year's AFL grand final contenders.

Martin thanked his parents for their support. ( AAP: Julian Smith )

Martin polled a record-breaking 36 votes to finish clear of Geelong's Patrick Dangerfield who scored 33 votes, but was ineligible for the award after a controversial suspension in round 19.

It's another sign of how remarkable this season has been for the 26-year-old who also received his second All Australian jumper and was voted the game's most valuable player by his peers.

Martin used his acceptance speech to pay tribute to those around him.

Brownlow Medal vote count 1. Dustin Martin (Richmond) - 36 votes 2. Patrick Dangerfield (Geelong) - 33 votes (ineligible) 3. Tom Mitchell (Hawthorn) - 25 votes 4. Josh Kennedy (Sydney) - 23 votes 5. Lance Franklin (Sydney) - 22 votes

"Obviously to get where I am today has taken a heap of support from some great people I really trust in my life," he said.

"Mum and dad, you've always supported me with my footy and I couldn't have got here without you both. I'm so grateful.

"To dad, I know it's tough for you not being here this week but I know how much you love me and I love you very much.

"I look forward to coming over in a couple of weeks and celebrating."

Martin's father, Shane, now lives in New Zealand after his visa was cancelled by the Australian Government.

Tigers have eye on the prize

The 26-year-old joined the Tigers from Bendigo in 2009, when he was chosen by club as the third pick in the national draft.

In a sensational season which will see Richmond in the big dance for the first time since 1982, Martin racked up more than 30 disposals in 14 matches.

Dustin Martin of the Tigers racked up more than 30 disposals in 14 games this year. ( AAP: Julian Smith )

But with one medal now around his neck, Martin has already turned his attention to the opportunity for another.

The Tigers are hoping to replicate their stunning form against the Adelaide Crows on Saturday in the Grand Final clash.

"To everyone at the Richmond footy club, the coaches, the staff ... what a week we've got in front of us," Martin said. "I can't thank you enough and I can't wait to finish it off with success this week hopefully.

"And to my teammates, I'm so proud of you all and I'm so proud of what we've been able to achieve together. This medal is because of each of you and the connection we have and the support we give each other.

"I couldn't think of a better group of guys to go into grand final with. We've worked hard all year for this moment and I'm excited for what we're about to do."

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In the Tigers' seven losses in the 2017 home-and-away season, Martin averaged just over 25 disposals, five clearances, nearly five inside 50s and six score involvements.

On the 15 occasions when Richmond were victorious, those figures were: 32.6 disposals, 7.1 clearances, 6.9 inside 50s and 9.9 score involvements.

With his contract with the Tigers due to run out at the end season, much of his year has been dominated by speculation that he would leave the club for a more lucrative offer from rivals.

But at the close of home and away season, Martin announced that he was sticking with the Tigers, signing a contract until 2024.

"It's a massive relief. I'm sick of people talking about it. I don't like being the centre of attention so people can go and find something else to talk about now," he said in August.