Six-time Olympic gold medalist and WNBA legend Diana Taurasi announces retirement

Diana Taurasi Announces Retirement: Six-Time Olympic Champion and WNBA Icon Bids Farewell to Basketball

Diana Taurasi, one of the most decorated athletes in basketball history, has officially announced her retirement from the WNBA. The six-time Olympic gold medalist and all-time leading scorer in league history is stepping away from the game after an illustrious 20-year career with the Phoenix Mercury.

At 42, Taurasi leaves behind a legacy that few can match. She led the Mercury to three WNBA championships after being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 WNBA Draft. Her dominance in the league was an extension of her success at the collegiate level, where she helped the University of Connecticut win three consecutive NCAA titles.

“Diana Taurasi is one of the greatest competitors to ever play the game of basketball on any stage,” WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said. “She has earned the unquestioned respect of players around the globe, delivered electrifying moments, and captivated fans time and time again.”

Taurasi’s name is synonymous with greatness. She became the first basketball player—male or female—to win six Olympic gold medals. Her record-setting 10,646 career points in the WNBA put her nearly 3,000 points ahead of the next highest scorer, fellow star Tina Charles.

An 11-time WNBA All-Star, Taurasi joined the league in its eighth season and quickly became one of its brightest stars. Her fearless playing style, unmatched shooting ability, and leadership helped elevate the WNBA’s visibility and popularity, making her a cornerstone of the sport’s growth over the last two decades.

“Diana is the greatest to ever play the game,” said Phoenix Mercury owner Mat Ishbia. “I’ve admired her my entire life—she is the ultimate leader, teammate, and competitor.”

Last summer, Taurasi became the oldest player to ever compete for USA Basketball at the Olympics in Paris. For years, speculation surrounded her retirement, and in a recent interview with Time magazine, she admitted that she had finally reached the end of her journey.

“Mentally and physically, I’m just full,” said the two-time WNBA Finals MVP. “That’s probably the best way I can describe it. I’m full, and I’m happy.”

Her decision to retire has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the basketball community. Current and former players, coaches, and fans have celebrated her relentless drive, competitive fire, and lasting impact on the game.

“Her legacy is unmatched,” Hall of Famer Rebecca Lobo shared on social media.

“LEGEND. GOAT. WINNER,” wrote All-Star Angel Reese. “Thank you, DT.”

As Taurasi steps away from professional basketball, her influence on the sport will continue to be felt for generations. Her name will forever be etched in WNBA history as one of the greatest to ever play the game.