>>>There was nothing to be gained by USA Today running the story. It was an affront to Ashe's dignity.
>
>No doubt they sold a few more papers which IMHO is the real motive behind the shield of sanctimony.

I think there are multiple motives - with increased sales/circulation definitely being one of them.

In addition - I've known some journalism majors over the years (as I'm sure others have as well). I think sometimes their passion for searching/reporting the truth wins out over protecting human dignity, as was the case with Arthur Ashe. Had their been some real social benefit in disclosing the news I think Ashe would have been OK with it. But there was no compelling reason to report it.

I'll admit that I've always been fired up over that specific story, because Ashe deserved far better treatment.