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.

More Clues from This Puzzle

4 Across

6 letters

Messy abode

17 Across

28 letters

Recently dated

8 Down

5 letters

Go-getter

22 Across

4 letters

Riddled (with)