take hat off to
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 someone
Fig. to salute or pay an honor to someone. Good work. I take my hat off to you. I take off my hat to you! What an excellent job!
take (one's) hat off to
To respect, admire, or congratulate.