26 Down
NYT Daily • August 28, 2025
First Black male tennis player to be ranked #1 globally
Answer:
ASHE
Hint:
Not available
Explanation:
This clue refers to Arthur Ashe, the legendary American tennis player who broke barriers in 1968 by becoming the first Black man to hold the world No. 1 ranking. The answer is simply his last name, "ASHE," which fits neatly into the crossword grid. His achievements went beyond sports, as he also became a prominent activist for racial equality and HIV/AIDS awareness after retiring. The clue is straightforward—no wordplay—just a direct nod to his historic accomplishment.