Magic Johnson Received Special Honor From Joe Biden This Weekend
01/04/2025 03:18 PM
There's very little Magic Johnson hasn't accomplished in both his professional and personal life, but the NBA legend received a unique honor from president Joe Biden over the weekend.
On Saturday, the Hall of Fame point guard was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House — along with 18 others — for their "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors."
One of the greatest players in basketball history, Johnson's career was unfortunately cut short by an HIV diagnosis in 1991. But since his retirement, he's been a huge advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention and done tremendous work through his Magic Johnson Foundation.
On top of his on-court accomplishments, Johnson has made himself a force to be reckoned with in the business world. And that's allowed him to become part of the ownership groups for MLB's Los Angeles Dodgers, the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks and the MLS' Los Angeles. As well as the NFL's Washington Commanders and NWSL's Washington Spirit.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is regarded as the nation's highest civilian honor and Johnson joins such athletes as: Hank Aaron, Roberto Clemente, Muhammad Ali, Billie Jean King, the late Bill Russell and Mariano Rivera.
"Sending a heartfelt congratulations to limited partner @MagicJohnson, who was awarded a Presidential Medal of Freedom today," the Commanders posted to X this afternoon.
Last summer, Magic put out a tweet thanking president Biden for his service as commander-in-chief and telling him he loves him.
"I want to thank President Biden for everything he has done for our country!" the Lakers great said. "The love he has for this nation mirrors the love that I and the American people have for him."
Soccer star Lionel Messi is also being honored by Biden for his support of children's healthcare and education programs around the world. He reportedly was not in attendance for the ceremony.
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