(WKYT) - In the lead-up to America turning 250 years old, we are looking back every day at ‘This Day In History.’

On this date in 1968, Arthur Ashe became the first Black tennis player to be ranked number one in the U.S.

Born in Richmond, Virginia, Ashe began playing tennis at 7-years-old on segregated courts.

His stellar 1968 season included leading the U.S. Davis Cup team to a championship.

Ashe also won at Forest Hills, the first American since 1955.

But as an amateur, he could not accept the $14,000 prize money.

Despite that bittersweet victory, Ashe achieved the nation’s top ranking.

He went on to win the Australian Open in 1970 and Wimbledon in 1975.

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