In an emotional curtain raiser to the first game of the 2010 season, the much-loved Tiger waved goodbye to supporters, many of who were wearing "Richo" face masks.
Richardson was honoured with a video tribute in front of the building crowd before he entered the arena through an honour guard of guernsey-clad children sporting the No.12.
The dodgy hamstring that forced his retirement last November stood up as he walked a lap of honour, where he was given a standing ovation from Richmond and Carlton supporters alike.
He paused to give a brief interview before leaving the field through the band of youngsters that high-fived him as he left.
The Tigers dedicated one side of their banner to their retired champion, with the message: Richo: Did you ever know you were our hero?
The reverse side, perhaps inadvertently, also referred to Richardson. It read: The dawning of a new Richmond era.
It was a fitting farewell for the player who went from maligned anti-hero to people's champion when he made a late dash for the 2008 Brownlow medal.
