Arthur Ashe, Jr.

Maggie L. Walker High, Richmond (Honorary)
Tennis

Arthur Ashe, Jr. began playing tennis in the segregated public parks in his hometown of Richmond, VA. As he improved, he was noticed by Dr. Robert W. Johnson of Lynchburg, VA who had coached Althea Gibson — the first African American to win Wimbledon and the U. S. National (now the U. S. Open) Championships. Ashe continued to improve and, in spite of the racial discrimination which barred him from local and regional tournaments, he won national youth titles in 1960 and 1961. A successful collegiate career at UCLA boosted his recognition as one of the world’s best amateur players. He was the first African American man to win the U. S. Open (1968), Australian Open (1970), and Wimbledon (1975) Grand Slam Titles. His dignified behavior as a world-class athlete was a sharp contrast to the negative stereotypes he faced as a youth. He became an ambassador for equality and goodwill around the world. The sports network ESPN annually presents the Arthur Ashe Courage Award to individuals who “reflect the spirit of Arthur Ashe, possessing strength in the face of adversity, courage in the face of peril, and the willingness to stand up for their beliefs no matter what the cost.” He was elected to the Fame in 1979 and the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1985.