take (one's) hat off to (someone or something)
To praise, salute, congratulate, or pay tribute to someone or something. We all take our hats off to Janet for her recent promotion. I take my hat off to that organization for providing help when no one else does.
take one's hat off to
Also, take off one's hat to. Express one's admiration, as in I take off my hat to you-you've done very well indeed. [Mid-1800s] Also see hats off to.