According to Magic Johnson, there was “no greater pressure” than having to convey to his wife, Cookie, of his being diagnosed with HIV in 1991. Johnson admitted in a People interview that he felt he had to inform Cookie right away but was intimidated by how she might respond.
Johnson claimed that to have a quiet conversation which occurred when he and Cookie went for a stroll in the park. He explained to her his diagnosis and how the virus had entered his body. Cookie originally reacted with shock and rage, but she finally accepted the information.
“I’ve played against some of the best basketball players in the world, right? I have been in championships. I’ve been in nine [NBA] Finals, so I know pressure. But there was no greater pressure than driving home to tell her“, Johnson said. (h/t via People)
Magic Johnson has been diagnosed with HIV.
— Ian (@isb0121) September 21, 2020
When Johnson was diagnosed, HIV/AIDS was still an extremely stigmatized illness. People were frequently rejected and subjected to discrimination because many people thought having HIV was a death sentence.
Johnson, however, decided to reveal his diagnosis in order to dispel the stigma associated with the condition and increase awareness of it. He revealed his diagnosis at a news conference and declared his intention to lead a long and healthy life.
Magic has had HIV for more than 30 years. Because of antiretroviral therapy, he has never acquired AIDS and is peacefully leading an ordinary existence. Additionally, he is an outspoken propagandist of HIV/AIDS education and prevention. He started several groups that battle and conquer the disease, and he frequently speaks against HIV/AIDS.
Magic Johnson announced retirement after HIV diagnosis
Johnson revealed his illness to the world on November 7, 1991. The basketball player also declared that he will give up playing and concentrate on the fight against AIDS.
Magic Johnson announced his sudden retirement in 1991 after learning he had HIV. But he came back to participate in the 1992 All-Star Game and took home the MVP Award. After objections from his teammates, he retired for a second time.
“They didn’t know if my immune system could hold up. And I had to take a look at my wife sitting here as they’re telling me”, he said.
Magic Johnson came back from retirement to play one last season in 1995-96.
If he stayed for just one more year, he would have played with a young Kobe and Shaq. pic.twitter.com/QtsLhaNVFo
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) August 23, 2021
Even though he had his fair share of participation in the season, Johnson did make a brief comeback with the Los Angeles Lakers as a player in 1996.
Magic Johnson would have had the scope to play alongside Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant had he remained past the season, as both players signed with the Lakers. He set back to play 32 games with the Lakers before taking his third and final retirement, in the 1995–96 season.
One must wonder to what extent he might have accomplished if it weren’t for HIV, given that his breathtaking career ended at the age of 32.