Diana Taurasi, the WNBA’s all-time leading scorer and one of the most decorated players in basketball history, has announced her retirement after 20 seasons, marking the end of a career that redefined women’s basketball.

The 42-year-old Phoenix Mercury legend revealed her decision in an interview with Time magazine on Tuesday, describing her retirement as a moment of fulfilment. “Mentally and physically, I’m just full,” Taurasi said. “That’s probably the best way I can describe it. I’m full and I’m happy.”

Taurasi, known for her trademark hair bun and unwavering confidence, leaves the game as a three-time WNBA champion, a six-time Olympic gold medallist, and the league’s career scoring leader with 10,646 points — nearly 3,000 more than her closest rival, Tina Charles. Her influence on the sport, both in the U.S. and internationally, has been described as transformative.

“It’s hard to put into words what this means,” said Geno Auriemma, Taurasi’s former coach at the University of Connecticut (UConn), where she led the Huskies to three consecutive NCAA titles from 2001 to 2004. “She’s the greatest winner in the history of basketball, period. Her impact on the game is immeasurable.”

Taurasi’s career began when the Phoenix Mercury selected her as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 WNBA draft. Over two decades, she became synonymous with the franchise, earning 10 All-WNBA First Team selections, 14 total All-WNBA honours, and 11 All-Star appearances. She was named the league’s MVP in 2009 and won WNBA Finals MVP honours twice (2009, 2014).

Beyond her WNBA success, Taurasi also dominated internationally, winning six EuroLeague titles while playing year-round for much of her career. She recently added a sixth Olympic gold medal to her collection at the Paris Games, further solidifying her status as one of the most accomplished athletes in basketball history.

“Diana is the greatest to have ever played the game,” said Mercury owner Mat Ishbia. “Her name is synonymous with the Phoenix Mercury, and she will forever be part of our family.”

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert praised Taurasi’s enduring impact on the league. “I thank Diana for everything she has brought to the WNBA — her passion, her charisma, and, most of all, her relentless dedication to the game,” Engelbert said in a statement. “She leaves a lasting legacy, and the future of the WNBA is in a great position because of her impact.”

Taurasi’s retirement closes a chapter on a career defined by excellence and longevity. She holds numerous WNBA records, including playoff scoring, field goals, 3-pointers, and 30-point games. She also set 16 franchise records with the Mercury.

Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon, a former rival, highlighted Taurasi’s competitive edge. “She just scored at all three levels,” Hammon said. “Just nasty out there. Our league is going to miss her.”

Off the court, Taurasi will now focus on spending time with her wife, Penny Taylor, a former Mercury teammate, and their two children.

As the basketball world reflects on her storied career, Taurasi’s legacy as a trailblazer and icon is undeniable. “For as long as people talk about college basketball, WNBA basketball, Olympic basketball, Diana’s name will be at the forefront,” Auriemma said. “She’s the greatest teammate I’ve ever coached.”

With her retirement, Diana Taurasi leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come, ensuring her place as one of the greatest athletes in the history of the sport.