Ainsworth was out of contract as a free agent at the end of 2024, but has turned his back on rival interest to remain loyal to the club which drafted him fourth overall in 2016.

The 26-year-old said he was invested in the future of the Gold Coast SUNS.

“I’m really excited to be continuing my career with the SUNS into what I believe will be a successful period for the club,” Ainsworth said.

“I’ve loved my eight years here and can see the future success we are building towards. There’s no way I wanted to miss out on that after all the hard work we’ve done as a group to get to this position.

“The responsibility is on us now to capitalise on the foundation we’ve built and become the first playing group to win finals for the Gold Coast.”

GC SUNS General Manager of Player Talent & Strategy Craig Cameron said the club was pleased to retain Ainsworth’s services.

“Ben is reaching the peak of his career and we are pleased to extend him for another four years,” Cameron said.

“His progress this year, learning a new system, has been terrific and he will only become a more valuable player for us in the future.”

Ainsworth has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2024 season after injuring his shoulder in Round 18.