Magic Johnson, an NBA legend, announced his sudden retirement from the Los Angeles Lakers in 1991 after testing positive for HIV. The announcement came as a shock to the NBA and those watching his news conference live on TV. The 32-year-old NBA superstar had no idea how much he had been dealing with the virus.
The disease itself had been around roughly a decade, but HIV claimed over. With the help of modern medicine, his wife’s support, and many doctor visits, Johnson has been living with HIV for nearly 0 years. Thanks to advances in medical science, the disease is now more manageable than it was when he first revealed his diagnosis.
Magic Johnson used the 1992 Olympic Games to shatter stigma around HIV, and in 1991, the NBA superstar publicly shared his HIV status. Though a watershed moment, the virus still disproportionately burdens minority athletes.
Earvin “Magic” Johnson Jr. (born August 14, 1959) is an American businessman and former professional basketball player. He is often regarded as the greatest point in NBA history. At a time when HIV was seen as a death sentence, Johnson shocked the world by announcing he was infected. The bigger shock was what happened when he went to the doctor and his T-cell count was off the charts, that’s when he knew he was good.
📹 Magic Johnson HIV announcement Part 1
During a press conference in 1991 basketball legend Magic Johnson announces he has HIV and is leaving the NBA.
📹 Magic Johnson Discusses HIV & AIDS
NBA legend and entrepreneur Magic Johnson talks to the WSJ’s Lee Hawkins about his advocacy for HIV and AIDS. Don’t miss a …
Add comment