Telma Monteiro extends contract with SL Benfica until 2024

HIGHLIGHTS

The judo athlete with plenty of medals Telma Monteiro has extended contract with Sport Lisboa e Benfica until 2024, a club's athlete for 14 years, since July 30, 2007.

"I arrived at Benfica in 2007 and never had any reason to leave. I’ve always been very happy at the club and loved by the fans and the board. We only have to change when we’re not happy, and I’m happy. That’s why I’m staying here. This link will last forever. Even after the end of my career, it will go on", declared to BTV.

After the Olympics in Tokyo, many people thought it was the end of Telma Monteiro’s career. The athlete explained the reasons why she is going to do the 2024 Olympic cycle, to be in Paris.

"I’ve already completed a year of the Olympic cycle. It was meant to be concluded last year [the event was postponed to 2021 due to the pandemics]. The Olympic qualifiers start next year, and if I achieve the qualification, I would be the only judo athlete in the world with six Olympic Games. That’s very motivating for me, a big challenge", said Telma Monteiro.

Considered as the best Portuguese judoka ever, the benfiquista counts already with 15 medals in European championships: six of gold (2021, 2015, 2012, 2009, 2007 and 2006), two of silver (2020 and 2011) and seven of bronze (2019, 2018, 2014, 2013, 2010, 2005 and 2004); also won five medals in World Championships: four of silver (2007, 2009, 2010 and 2014) and a bronze one (2005); and the bronze medal won at the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, in 2016. 

On November 5, the judokas of Benfica were surprised by the President Rui Costa during a training session…

"I had spoken to the President before… It’s good to have straight contact with the athletes because we feel recognized and appreciated. It’s different to know and to see what we do. It’s good and important to have this connection, because we all want to give our best so that Benfica can be successful", praised Telma Monteiro.