Tennis hero Arthur Ashe's South African legacy: 'The first free black man I'd ever seen'
Published: 7/4/2025

Arthur Ashe's South African legacy is celebrated 50 years after his historic Wimbledon win. Despite his accomplishments on the court, Ashe's fight against racial discrimination, notably in apartheid South Africa, defined his life's purpose. Through his activism, including advocating for an international sporting boycott of South Africa, Ashe left a lasting impact beyond tennis, inspiring others to challenge social injustice worldwide. Today, the Arthur Ashe Soweto Tennis Centre stands as a testament to his commitment to equality and empowering the next generation.