The letter Arthur Ashe sent Michael Chang about becoming a young tennis pro | ESPN 30 for 30

The letter Arthur Ashe sent Michael Chang about becoming a young tennis pro | ESPN 30 for 30

Michael Chang reads the letter he received from tennis legend Arthur Ashe during his own rise to prominence as a young tennis star.

"American Son" tells the story of Michael Chang’s improbable rise as a young American tennis star, including his 1989 French Open title at age 17. The 30 for 30 documentary premieres July 29 at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.

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[juandixonformvp]

Any Asian American kid growing up in the 1980's remembers how powerful it was to just see Michael Chang on TV. Those were the days where we only got 5 channels on our TVs and we just didn't see Asian Americans succeeding in sports that much.

[fmtien]

Arthur Ashe was the epitome of grace and class. Just an incredible human being.

[mty]

Imagine what that letter did for a young Michael Chang's confidence.... Thanks For Sharing!!!!

[firianto]

That was such a sweet, thoughtful and powerful letter from Arthur. I miss both of these players.

[ronschwolsky]

Ashe was a class act. This letter proves how unselfish of an individual he was. Only the good die young.

[MichaelLu]

Nothing speaks more of Ashe’s love for humanity than this letter as far as I’m concerned. In it he was sincere, empathetic and vulnerable.

[winromeo]

This is so moving and kind of restores a bit of humanity for me. The class acts will always be class act, to inspire and be kind. I miss watching Michael plays, what a great time it was!

[happymanus]

Arthur Ashe, just a legend, wonderful assistance for people after,
Just excellent

[InHisService]

Wow! What an incredible HANDWRITTEN letter from one of the greatest in character AND sportsmanship. Thank you for sharing it.

[PaulVisionLee]

You always hear great things about Mr. Ashe but this just cements his pure kindness. What a great man. Chang was a goat for us Asians, I use to cherish his autograph. Ashe sharing his wisdom in such a graceful and inspiring manner was amazing

[samle]

I heard Jim Courier call Chang a "Chinaman" during a tournament. Court mics caught it. Announcers said nothing.

[bLucky]

Arthur Ashe was way beyond his time, what a true gentleman he was.
Michael, thanks for sharing the letter.
Total RESPECT for both of you.🙏

[kathleen]

Thank you for sharing your letter Michael Chang! I miss Arthur Ashe. I watched you play tennis and I’m sure your parents were very proud of you !

[lilypark]

Thank you Mr. Chang. I was in high school when you started showing up on tv. I was very proud of you and you gave me a hope. Thank you.

[s]

I was v lucky to catch Michael Chang winning French Open on TV from Singapore and I didn’t sleep well that night from the adrenaline I had never experienced before. I’m now playing tennis because of you. Thank you for inspiring many of us till today. ❤

[roberttaylor]

Michael, you were my favorite tennis player.

Thank you for sharing your personal letter from Mr. Ash. 🙏

[claudemoyen]

Mr. Ashe endured/suffered a lot, silently. Doors of tennis are opened because of his sacrifices.

[chrisyang]

It's been 21 years since an American man won a grand slam singles title. America is very fortunate to have Michael Chang and Arthur Ashe. Hopefully no one will ever have to put up with some of the things they had to deal with in the world of tennis.

[ctrl-shift-run]

Two of my favorite tennis players of all time. Absolute legends off and on the court.

[paulsolon]

Heartfelt letter. Shows realism, intelligence, good heart, hope