Elena Delle Donne Announces Retirement

In a heartfelt announcement posted on Instagram, two-time WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne officially declared her retirement from professional basketball. The 35-year-old star stated, 'This is the right thing for me at the right time,' as she reflected on the tough decision to step away from the game she loves.

Describing her departure as 'one of the hardest parts of my career,' Delle Donne acknowledged that her body made the decision for her long before her mind accepted the reality of retirement. This sentiment resonates deeply with fans and fellow athletes, underscoring the physical and emotional toll that elite sports can take.

A Legacy of Achievements

Delle Donne’s legacy in the WNBA is unprecedented, filled with remarkable achievements that highlight her talent and dedication. She burst onto the scene in 2013 after being selected No. 2 overall in the draft by the Chicago Sky, where she clinched the Rookie of the Year title. Over the following years, she became a prominent figure in women’s basketball, making the All-Star team in each of her first three seasons and winning her first MVP award in 2015.

In 2017, Delle Donne was traded to the Washington Mystics, where she continued to shine. She reached All-Star status each year in her first three seasons with the Mystics, and in 2019, she was not only crowned MVP for the second time but also led her team to their first-ever WNBA championship. This historic achievement marked a significant milestone not just for her but for women’s basketball as a whole.

Overcoming Challenges

However, her career was not without challenges. During the 2019 WNBA Finals, Delle Donne suffered a debilitating back injury that ultimately required two surgeries in 2020. This forced her to miss the COVID-19 shortened season and limited her participation in the following season, as she played only three games in 2021.

Despite these setbacks, she made a triumphant return to the court in 2022 and played exceptionally well, averaging 17.2 points and 6.3 rebounds. This performance earned her down-ballot MVP votes, and she continued to excel in 2023, earning her seventh and final All-Star selection.

Contemplating the Future

As Delle Donne contemplated her future, she faced uncertainty. Although the Mystics placed a core designation on her, ensuring she would remain with the team should she choose to play, she opted to take a break from basketball instead of signing a supermax contract for the 2024 season.

After a year away from the game, Elena Delle Donne has chosen to retire, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most decorated players in WNBA history. With two MVP awards, five All-Pro selections, and a place in the W25, which honors the top 25 players of all time, her impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.

A Lasting Impact

The basketball community and fans alike will remember Delle Donne not just for her accolades, but for her passion, resilience, and the inspiration she provided to countless aspiring athletes. As she steps away from the court, the question remains—what’s next for the remarkable Elena Delle Donne?