National Basketball Association

LeBron James congratulates 'the greatest' Serena Williams on record-tying Grand Slam win

Published Jul. 10, 2016 2:19 a.m. ET

Andrew Lynch

Game recognizes game. Real recognizes real. And GOATs recognize GOATs.

After Serena Williams tied Steffi Graf with her 22nd Grand Slam win on Saturday at Wimbeldon, LeBron James congratulated Williams on her historic achievement -- and hinted that he's looking forward to No. 23, as one might imagine:

.@KingJames shows love to @serenawilliams after her historic 22nd Grand Slam title.https://t.co/zEwTav5PVE
— UNINTERRUPTED (@uninterrupted) July 9, 2016

Another NBA all-timer co-signed the declaration that Williams is one of the greatest ever. Thanks, Kobe Bryant!

While LeBron correctly called Williams an "inspiration," that's apparently a two-way street. Following her victory, Williams told ABC that she was in part inspired by the epic comeback by James and the Cavaliers in this year's NBA Finals, when they trailed the Golden State Warriors 3-1 in the best-of-seven series:

@serenawilliams the #GOAT
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) July 9, 2016

By the way -- just for good measure, Williams went ahead and won doubles with her sister, Venus at Wimbeldon as well. It's their sixth doubles victory at the All England Club and 14th Grand Slam win. Because when you're that awesome, you might as well win all the trophies.