The central defender feared his top-flight career was over when he was sold by Southampton in 2003 after making 11 Premier League appearances, writes Graham Hiley.
He joined Barnsley but made just three appearances before dropping into the bottom tier of English football with Swansea City on a free transfer in June 2004.
Now he has finally made it back to the top as one of three players to have gone through every division with the Welsh club.
Monk, 32, proudly skippered the side in their 4-2 victory over Reading in Monday's Championship final as Swansea ensured they would become the 45th team to play in the Premier League.
"It was a case of starting again and it was a real challenge to get back.
"It has taken a long time but I never stopped believing. This was probably my last chance so I am thrilled we have got there.
"It is a remarkable thing to have gone right through every division. Three of us have done it but to have captained the side makes me very proud.
"It has been an amazing journey, not just for myself but for everyone involved with the club - especially when you consider they were so close to dropping out of the league in 2003.
"It really is a fairytale story and I can't wait for the next chapter. I just hope we all get the chance to play for Swansea in the Premier League.
"I am a Spurs fan so I am looking forward to playing at White Hart Lane but all the games will be massive. Every one will be like a cup final.
"It is the best league in the world and I am thrilled to be part of it again."
The Royals hit the post before Swansea reasserted their authority with Monk putting his body on the line to ensure there was no equaliser.
He added: "It was an up and down game but we never do things the easy way at Swansea. We knew Reading would come back at us and credit to them but we dug in, got a fourth goal and saw out the game.
"It was a very proud moment when I lifted the trophy, turned to the fans and saw what it meant to them all. Apart from the birth of my baby, it was the best moment of my life.
"Those fans have been through so much over the years and they deserve this moment. It has been an amazing journey.
"We were almost out of the league eight years ago and to get this far is probably one of the greatest achievements ever.
"The club has a great community feel and I am delighted we have managed to reward all those who have stuck by us."
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