Elena Delle Donne Closes WNBA Chapter In Tiny Bikini

Elena Delle Donne, one of the most iconic and decorated players in WNBA history, has officially announced her retirement from professional basketball!

The two-time WNBA MVP shared the emotional update with fans on April 4 through a heartfelt Instagram post, describing how her body ultimately decided her mind could catch up. Known for her powerful presence on the court and her candid vulnerability off of it, Delle Donne leaves behind a legacy that transcends stats and trophies.

“One of my favorite children’s books asked, ‘How did it get so late so soon?’ I have asked myself that over and over again in the process of coming to the decision to retire from playing basketball,” she wrote in her post. “My body seemed to make this decision before my mind accepted it, but I now truly know this is the right thing for me at the right time.”

The very next day, she gave fans a glimpse of her new post-retirement life—relaxed and radiant in an orange bikini while lounging on a pool float, toasting to her storied career with a playful Shotfun Shotgun drink. With her list of accolades flashing across the screen and a goat emoji sealing the celebration, Delle Donne reminded everyone why she’ll always be remembered as one of the greats.

Drafted second overall in 2013 by the Chicago Sky, Delle Donne wasted no time proving herself in the league. She was named Rookie of the Year that season and went on to earn seven All-Star selections over her ten-year career. Her first MVP title came in 2015, solidifying her reputation as a dominant force on the court.

After being traded to the Washington Mystics in 2017, she elevated the franchise to new heights. In 2019, Delle Donne led the Mystics to their first-ever WNBA Championship and became the first player in league history to join the elusive 50-40-90 shooting club—an accomplishment achieved by only the most efficient scorers in basketball history.

Though Delle Donne sat out the 2024 season, her retirement announcement still took fans by surprise. Her statement on Instagram reflected the emotional difficulty behind the decision.

“Words cannot adequately express how thankful I am to my family, all of my incredible teammates, friends, executives, sponsors, staff, and most importantly the amazing fans that have accompanied me on this journey,” she wrote. “This game has been my life and I am grateful for the memories and how much it’s given me.”

Her choice to step away comes after years of battling injuries, including chronic back issues that kept her off the court for significant stretches. Still, she leaves with no regrets, having accomplished nearly every goal imaginable in the sport.

On April 5, Delle Donne gave fans a glimpse into her new chapter—one filled with sunshine, humor, and well-earned relaxation. In the viral Instagram video, she floated on a pool lounger, bikini-clad and smiling as she attempted a Shotfun Shotgun drink—ultimately spilling it on herself in a moment that felt both goofy and human.

With titles like “2019 WNBA Champion,” “2X MVP,” and “Olympic Gold Medalist” flashing across the screen, she reminded the world that her legacy is etched in basketball history. The goat emoji at the end? Fitting, considering her trailblazing impact on and off the court.

Beyond her stats, Delle Donne is known for her advocacy work and her courage in speaking about personal challenges, including her battle with Lyme disease and her sister’s disabilities. She has been a role model for countless young athletes, not just for what she achieved but for how she carried herself while doing it.

Her retirement may mark the end of her time as a player, but her influence on the sport and its community will continue for years to come.

While Delle Donne hasn’t yet revealed specific plans for her post-playing career, her charisma, intelligence, and leadership suggest that big things are ahead—whether in broadcasting, coaching, advocacy, or business.

“I can’t wait for what’s next!” she told her followers. With a legacy this strong and a personality that shines just as brightly off the court, Elena Delle Donne is clearly just getting started on her next journey.