AFL 2024: Ben King signs two-year extension with Gold Coast

Gold Coast has secured the signature of one of the hottest properties on the AFL market in a major win for new coach Damien Hardwick.

Gold Coast forward Ben King has signed a two-year deal to remain at the club. Picture: Albert Perez / Getty Images

Gold Coast star Ben King says there’s “no ceiling” on what the Suns can achieve under new coach Damien Hardwick as he spurned interest from Melbourne clubs to recommit until the end of 2026.

The 23-year-old key forward signed a new deal on Friday that will take him through to free agency as he stated his belief the Suns had “the right people” to contend for a maiden premiership during his career.

It comes after speculation mounted across the last two years of his contract that Victorian clubs including Essendon and Collingwood were trying to lure King back to Melbourne, with those bids likely to re-intensify in 2026.

“I’m pumped to commit to the club and our playing group for what is going to be an exciting period for us,” King said.

Gold Coast star Ben King has recommitted to the Suns until at least the end of 2026, when he is set to become a restricted free agent. Picture: Chris Hyde / Getty Images

“There’s no ceiling to what we can achieve. I think we can challenge for premierships in the next few years and have the people and processes to do that.

“I love the group of boys we have, love the staff, love the community, and think we have the right people to challenge for flags in the future.”

Gold Coast list boss Craig Cameron said the club was pleased to finalise King’s contract before the season, with the Suns free to focus on negotiations with free agents Ben Ainsworth and captain Jarrod Witts.

“We know how much Ben loves being at the Gold Coast Suns, so it’s pleasing to be able to finalise a new contract before the season starts to allow Ben to focus on helping us win on-field,” Cameron said.

“Ben is a key player in our future under Damien Hardwick and we look forward to seeing what he can achieve with the Gold Coast Suns in the years to come.”

King booted 40 goals in 20 games last season in an impressive comeback from the ACL injury which wiped out his entire 2022 campaign.

The former No. 6 pick has kicked the third-most goals in the Suns’ history with 129 in 73 games.