"It was an honor" - Kerry Washington lavishes praise on "GOAT" Serena Williams after presenting tennis legend with Jackie Robinson Sports Award

Tennis legend Serena Williams was awarded the Jackie Robinson Sports Award at the 2023 NAACP Image Awards. Kerry Washington, who has been a huge supporter of Williams through the years, had high words of praise for the American athlete after presenting her with the prestigious award.

The renowned Hollywood actress took to social media to congratulate Serena Williams and remarked that she was privileged to be chosen to award the trophy to the “Greatest of All Time.”

"It was an honor to honor you, Serena Williams. The GOAT," Kerry Washington said on her Instagram story. "Congratulations on a very well deserved Jackie Robinson Award."

"Love you, Kerry Washington," Williams reciprocated on social media.

Williams and Kerry Washington on Instagram

The former tennis player also acknowledged Kerry Washington during her acceptance speech and thanked her for her unceasing support throughout her career.

"Thank you, Kerry. It’s such an honor to have a friend present this award to me today. I am incredibly grateful for your incredible kind words and your unwavering support over the years," she said.

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"I haven't held up a trophy in a long time" – Serena Williams during her Jackie Robinson Sports Award acceptance speech

Serena Williams lifted her final tennis trophy at the 2020 ASB Classic in Auckland

Serena Williams' illustrious career reached its conclusion at the 2022 US Open. While the 23-time Grand Slam champion has lifted as many as 73 singles career titles as a tennis pro, Williams lifted her last one three years ago at the 2020 ASB Classic in Auckland.

During her Jackie Robinson Sports Award acceptance speech, Serena Williams acknowledged her first trophy in a long time and thanked the NAACP for the honor as well as their relentless efforts for the African American community.

"I haven’t held up a trophy in a long time," the former World No. 1 joked. "Do I do it like this?”

"Thank you to the NAACP, which continues to accelerate change with important areas such as health care, education, sports, the economy and so, so much more. The tireless efforts of your organization are making a difference in the lives of African Americans today and tomorrow," Williams said.

The Jackie Robinson Sports Award, given to athletes who have promoted social justice through creative endeavors, has legends such as Lebron James and Michael Jordan as its previous recipients. The tennis legend stated that it was her privilege to be recognized alongside such icons.

“It is really a privilege to be recognized alongside some of the sports greatest icons, the most accomplished athletes Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Michael Johnson, Wilma Rudolph, just to name a few, and many other forces in the field. Together, we are a team of trailblazers and we represent what is possible when you truly believe in yourself and your potential and follow your life and passion,” the American said.