One of the classiest players ever to grace the court, Ashe won 76 Titles and three Grand Slams over his long career. Ashe was also active in the Civil Rights movement and was one of the many who fought against Apartheid in South Africa.
Tragically, he died at age 49 from AIDS-related pneumonia in 1993. It is believed that he contracted the disease from a blood transfusion, and he dedicated the last part of his life to AIDS awareness. ESPN would create the Arthur Ashe Courage Award, given annually to the member of the sports world who exhibits courage in the face of adversity.