Washington Mystics Elena Delle Donne Request to Be Medically Excused From WNBA Season Denied

Washington Mystics superstar forward and reigning WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne’s medical request was denied for the 2020 WNBA season. Delle Donne and her agent told ESPN the news Monday.

Delle Donne’s statement to ESPN was:

“The independent panel of doctors the league appointed to review high-risk cases have advised that I’m not high risk, and should be permitted to play in the bubble.”

“I love my team, and we had an unbelievable season last year, and I want to play! But the question is whether or not the WNBA bubble is safe for me. My personal physician who has treated me for Lyme disease for years advised me that I’m at high risk for contracting and having complications from COVID-19.”

“I’m thinking things over, talking to my doctor and my wife, and look forward to sharing what I ultimately plan to do very soon. My heart has gone out to everyone who has had to choose between their health and having an income, and of course to anyone who has lost their job, their home, and anyone they love in this pandemic.”

– Elena Delle Donne Washingtion Mystics 

Delle Donne has yet to travel with the Mystics to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. The six-time All-Star has suffered from chronic Lyme disease since 2008 and is a well-known advocate. Her request being denied means the Mystics do not have to pay their star for this season.

Washington Mystics general manager and head coach Mike Thibault told this to ESPN Monday:

“As with all of our players, we have and will support Elena throughout this process. The health and well-being of our players is of the utmost importance.”