Elena Delle Donne Shares Emotional WNBA Retirement Announcement on Instagram: ‘This is the Right Decision for My Future’

Elena Delle Donne, a two-time WNBA MVP, has officially retired from basketball. She shared the news on Instagram, stating it was "the right thing for me at the right time." At 35, she faced a tough decision, mentioning that her body indicated it was time before her mind fully realized it.

Delle Donne’s career is full of remarkable achievements. She started strong, winning Rookie of the Year in 2013 as the second overall pick for the Chicago Sky. Right from the beginning, she was a force in the league, making the All-Star team in her first three seasons and securing her first MVP award in 2015.

In 2017, Delle Donne was traded to the Washington Mystics, continuing her impressive performance. She made the All-Star roster three more times and earned another MVP title in 2019 when she led the Mystics to their first WNBA championship.

However, injuries affected her career. After sustaining a back injury during the 2019 finals, she underwent two surgeries in 2020 and missed the entire season due to COVID-19. She played only three games in 2021 before returning to form in 2022, averaging 17.2 points and 6.3 rebounds. Despite these challenges, she still garnered votes for MVP in both 2022 and 2023, ultimately earning her final All-Star selection.

As Delle Donne considered her future, the Mystics offered her a supermax contract, but she chose to step away from the game for the 2024 season. After a year away, she decided to officially retire, leaving behind a legacy of excellence. Her accolades include being a five-time All-Pro and a member of the W25 team, which honors the top 25 WNBA players of all time.

Delle Donne’s impact on the sport is significant. She has not only broken records but also inspired countless athletes. Her journey reminds us of the grit, determination, and resilience required to succeed at the highest levels of sports. As fans and fellow athletes reflect on her career, it’s clear that her contributions to basketball will be remembered for many years to come.

For more on Elena Delle Donne’s career and impact, check this detailed overview from the WNBA.

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Elena Delle Donne, WNBA, the Mystics, Washington Mystics, Chicago Sky