Superstar Christian Petracca has opened up on his "scary" move to the Gold Coast and emphasised footy remains his top priority.
The 29-year-old has endured a difficult 18 months, recovering from a significant injury and expressing an interest in leaving the Demons in successive years.
He now has a fresh start with an emerging Suns team and spoke to reporters in Gold Coast colours for the first time.
“Footy was always a number one priority of my decision," he insisted.
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"I love my job, I’m passionate about my football, I know I can go to another level with my football.
"And no doubt being in this environment and being in this weather, it suits an athlete’s lifestyle.
“I’m really passionate about my recovery and my performance, so no doubt being by the beach and being in good weather definitely helps you perform better.”
Petracca is also rejuvenated by what he sees around him at the Suns under coach Damien Hardwick, who guided the club into the finals for the first time in 2025 and secured an eliminational final victory over the Dockers in Perth.
“It is a big move but an exciting one,” Petracca said. “Change is sometimes scary but it also creates great opportunities.
“Every year you see the Suns get better and better and I want to be part of something special.
“The culture of the Suns is why I came here, too. What they’re building is special.”
Petracca, a Norm Smith medallist and four-time All-Australian, joins a Suns midfield already boasting Matt Rowell, Noah Anderson and Touk Miller.
He is also excited to link up with young gun Bailey Humphrey, who the Suns refused to move during the trade period.
“I’m incredibly excited to work with someone like him,” Petracca added.
“He reminds me of myself when I was at that age. Raw, but he came fourth in the best and fairest too, so basically a breakout year, which is pretty scary considering how many more levels he can go to.
“We had a phone call the other day about his role and how excited I am to just play with him and learn actually off him about that role and how explosive he is.”