Arthur Ashe played an almost perfect game against Jimmy Connors to secure a landmark victory for both himself and his sport, beating his fellow American 6-1, 6-1, 5-7, 6-4.

It was a fitting triumph for Ashe a few days shy of his 32nd birthday, winning his first and only Wimbledon title at the ninth attempt.

Other memorable events to happen on this day:

1947: Larry Doby signs for the Cleveland Indians, becoming the first black player in the American League.

1980: Bjorn Borg wins a fifth straight Wimbledon title in an epic five-setter against John McEnroe.

1988: Malcolm Marshall takes 7-22 at Old Trafford as England are all out for just 93 in the second innings, the West Indies cruising to victory in the third Test.

2009: Daniel Sturridge, 19, leaves boyhood club Manchester City to sign for rivals Chelsea.