Greatness recognizes greatness. Magic Johnson, celebrating Billie Jean King, applauded the trailblazer not just in tennis, but in women’s sports. King’s career, which kicked off in the 1960s was packed with accolades, including a jaw-dropping number of 39 Grand Slam titles. Her legacy is one for the ages, but somehow, she’s still adding to it, even at 80 years old.

On the 27th, Billie Jean King became the first individual female athlete to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest honors the U.S. Congress can bestow. It is often awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to society. Previous recipients include heavyweights like Jackie Robinson, Roberto Clemente, and Arnold Palmer. Now, King is rightfully among them.

Naturally, her friend and longtime business partner, Magic Johnson, was quick to applaud this historic moment. Johnson took to his Instagram story, sharing a heartfelt message: “Congratulations to my friend and business partner @billiejeanking on receiving the Congressional Gold Medal and becoming the first individual female athlete to receive the honor 👏🏽.”

But this honor didn’t come overnight. The legislation granting King the medal passed back in September 2023, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of her legendary “Battle of the Sexes” win over Bobby Riggs. This monumental match was a turning point in the fight for gender equality in sports.

The bill itself had overwhelming support, sailing through the Senate unanimously, and President Biden officially signed it into law just two days ago.

Yet, while the Congressional Gold Medal is a massive honor, it’s King’s relentless fight for equal pay in tennis that truly defines her legacy. It was back in 1973 that she headed the formation of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). That would eventually pave the way for equal prize money at major tournaments.

Magic Johnson’s career was only beginning then. But it wouldn’t take him much to recognize her greatness. Commending her influence previously, he agreed, it “transcended across all sports,” after adding, “your advocation towards gender equity and social justice have shaped the way women athletes are perceived in today’s society… I have such a deep sense of respect for the trailblazer you are.” But yes, the LA Lakers icon hasn’t just been a spectator from afar.

Relation between Magic Johnson and Billie Jean King

Back in 2012, Magic Johnson led a group to purchase the Los Angeles Dodgers, a bold move in itself. Then, in 2018, King joined him as part of the ownership team. Together, they navigated the team to a World Series victory in 2020.

More recently, their Dodgers clinched the NL West Championship with a solid 7-2 win over the Padres. Magic celebrated the moment, posting: “On behalf of the entire Dodgers ownership group – Congratulations to all of our Men in Blue, Manager Dave Roberts and his staff, and the entire Dodgers fanbase,”—a proud moment, not just for the team but for these two legends in the front office.

Beyond sports, their mutual respect is rooted in advocacy. While King has been a loud voice for LGBTQ+ community, that would even earn her the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, Johnson has for years, continued to spread awareness about HIV. Both have faced and fought social stigmas head-on, and continue to challenge the norms.