Decoded: Arthur Ashe Courage Award

Magdalena Guillen
Updated
ESPYs Producers Explain Why They Chose Caitlyn Jenner for Arthur Ashe Award
ESPYs Producers Explain Why They Chose Caitlyn Jenner for Arthur Ashe Award



You may have heard of the Arthur Ashe Courage Award lately -- and for a good reason. This year, the prestigious award -- which is presented annually at the ESPY Awards to a notable sports figure for whose contributions transcend sports -- will be presented to Caitlyn Jenner.

Caitlyn Jenner is introduced to the world:



Almost 40 years ago, gold medal Olympic champion Bruce Jenner broke world records, capturing America's heart with his Olympic strength and determination. Now, the sports world is recognizing Jenner for her ultimate courage to come out as a transgender woman, which has captured America's attention once again. The ESPY Awards will air on ABC at 8/7C on Wednesday.

Arthur Ashe was an American World No. 1 professional tennis player -- the first black player selected to the United States Davis Cup team and the only black man ever to win the singles title at Wimbledon, the US Open, or the Australian Open. He was a fearless civil rights activist and his commitment to social justice left a mark on the world, leaving a legacy both on and off the tennis court.

Past recipients of the Arthur Ashe Courage Award include Muhammad Ali in 1997 and Nelson Mandela in 2009.

Past recipients:

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