The player donned in number 90—her vision, feints, assists, and goals transformed handball into a more enchanting sport. Her talent was celebrated in the final by the reigning four-time European champions, marking her as a true artist on the court and a formidable fighter, leader, and captain.

As of Tuesday evening, a significant chapter in Montenegrin sports history has concluded—legendary handball player Milena Raičević has realized that she has given her all to the sport and has decided to retire at the age of 35.

Unexpectedly announced in Debrecen following her last match at the European Championship, this news came as a surprise since she remains in excellent physical condition, as demonstrated before her injury during the opening of the EHF Euro against Serbia.

– I know there are questions about why now, maybe it’s too soon, but I truly believe that the time is right and that I have made the right choice—Milena Raičević told “Vijesti”.

Milena started her handball journey at the age of ten, donning the blue and white jersey of Budućnost for the first time.

– I have always believed that the choice to end my career would be my own, just as it was when I began playing this sport. As I mentioned earlier, I wished to conclude with the national team, and I take great pride in that. I poured my heart and soul into this sport, and it reciprocated in kind—Milena elaborated.

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medals were secured by Milena Raičević with Montenegro—gold (2012) and bronze (2022) at the European Championship, as well as silver at the 2012 Olympic Games

As she reflects, it is time to embark on new life chapters that take priority.

– My family is paramount; their support since day one has fueled my strength and motivation. Recently, being away from my son and family due to extensive commitments with the club has been increasingly challenging. I understand what it’s like to have absent parents, and as a mother, I wish to be present for my child—Raičević emphasized.

No Ambitions for Coaching

What lies ahead? Will Milena remain in handball and consider coaching in the future?

– For now, I want to take the time to rest and cherish moments with my loved ones. To be honest, I have no aspirations to become a coach. I will always wish to contribute to this sport and assist in its growth in every way possible—she stated, recalling how she has frequently been the coach’s right hand on the court.

With Montenegro, she became a European champion and won an Olympic silver medal. As a member of Budućnost, she twice conquered the continent. Among countless medals and cherished memories, can she highlight specific favorites?

– Considering the numerous successes, it is tough to single any out. I would start with the first significant achievement—the bronze medal at the Junior World Championship in 2010 in South Korea, alongside my fellow “lionesses” (including Majda Mehmedović, Marina Rajcic, Suzana Lazović, Andrea Klikovac, etc.) under the guidance of Dragan Adžić who sensationally led us to victory.

A Year of Miracles

Just two years later, Milena evolved into a key player, leading the senior national team of Montenegro to its most significant triumph, with her performances during the semi-finals of the EHF Euro against Serbia and the finals against Norway, which will be a part of handball lore.

– The entire year of 2012 was remarkable—winning the Champions League, followed by the historic Olympic medal and European gold with the national team. Every player from the 2012 generation holds a special place in my heart because what we accomplished that year was nothing short of miraculous, thanks to our professional staff led by Dragan Adžić and the man who made this sport incredibly successful, Predrag Bošković, the former president of Budućnost and RSCG.

There were defeats as well, serious injuries, and choices that may have led to regrets, but…

– I always aimed to put the toughest moments behind me and move onward—Milena is resolute.

Growing Under Dragan Adžić Since Age 10

Is there a moment in Milena Raičević’s life that stands out as crucial, the instant she realized she would succeed in handball?

– If you possess even a shred of talent, and you’ve been trained by Dragan Adžic since age ten and you have the desire to learn from him, then greatness is assured—Milena is unequivocal.

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Milena Raičević won the Champions League two times with Budućnost—in 2012 and 2015, when she lifted the trophy as team captain. She also claimed the Cup Winners’ Cup in 2010.

Milena essentially devoted her entire club career to her one true love, Budućnost. Perhaps she envisioned bidding farewell to handball while wearing the blue and white jersey, but last year’s events altered that dream.

Buducnost Bemax’s management decided to send Milena to the Rudar branch after she filed a lawsuit against the club for unpaid wages during her pregnancy in the 2020/21 season. Following this, she parted ways with the team, moving to Rapid in Bucharest.

Nevertheless, her feelings for the renowned club from Podgorica remain unchanged.

– I hold no grudges against anyone; my future shines bright in the most beautiful colors, and no one can take that away from me. I played with all my heart, which will always fill me with joy and pride. The two Champions League titles speak for themselves—Milena Raičević concluded, another legend emerging from the Podgorica club.

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