AFL legend Kevin Bartlett believes Gold Coast superstar Gary Ablett could be the greatest player the game has ever seen.

A former champion of the game in his own right, Bartlett made the statement at Monday’s All-Australian awards ceremony, on a night Ablett became the first player to earn eight consecutive All Australian guernseys.

The highly-respected Richmond great has remained a prominent voice in the football community for six decades, and while fellow heavyweights Mark Rucciuto and Robert Harvey are the only other two players to have achieved the honour eight times, Bartlett was firm that Ablett has graduated into a league of his own.

And with Ablett amassing two premiership medallions, two Brownlow Medals, five AFLPA MVPs and five career Best & Fairest awards, it’s hard to argue with Bartlett.

But Ablett, himself, was quick to downplay the Hall of Famer, instead reminding those in attendance of the many great footballers that have graced the premiership field.

"It's very humbling, but I've seen so many great players growing up watching footy and also played with, and against, a lot of great players as well," Ablett said.

"I don't think it's something you think about too much, I've been very fortunate with injuries and I just enjoy playing football — that's what it's about.

"These individual awards are just bonuses, they really are.

Amazingly, the now eight-time All Australian said he still has to pinch himself when he reflects on the phenomenal success that has followed him throughout his 13-year career.

"Eight All-Australians? I remember getting to Geelong and thinking if I play one AFL game I'll be stoked, and you look back now at all I've achieved and it's kind of like 'wow'," he said.

"I never expected all this."