Diana Taurasi announces her retirement after winning six Olympic golds

Diana Taurasi has announced her retirement at the age of 42 after 20 seasons in the WNBA. At 42, the Phoenix Mercury star leaves the court as the league's all-time leading scorer, with more than 10,600 points and six Olympic gold medals and three WNBA championships.

She revealed her decision in a conversation with TIME magazine: “That’s probably the best way to describe it. I’m full and happy.”

Since being selected as the first pick in the 2004 draft by the Phoenix Mercury, Taurasi has proven to be a unique player. Her impact was felt immediately, leading her team to titles in 2007, 2009 and 2014 and multiple EuroLeague titles during her stints with clubs in Russia and Türkiye.

Throughout her career she averaged 18.8 points, 4.2 assists and 3.9 rebounds per game, remaining one of the most dominant players in history. Her scoring ability made her the absolute leader in points and three-pointers in the WNBA, as well as being one of the best assists of all time.

The news of her retirement has generated multiple reactions in the sports world. Phoenix Mercury owner Mat Ishbia praised her impact: “Diana is the best of all time. She has had an incredible impact on our franchise. Her name is synonymous with the Phoenix Mercury and she will always be a part of our family.”

The WNBA's official account dedicated a message to her on social media: “Thank you Diana for changing the game forever, all the praise could never compare to the type of person and the advantage you embodied when you stepped onto the court.”