Earl is a four-letter word that is the answer to the crossword clue 'Bowling Great Anthony'. EARL is a nickname for the professional bowler Anthony EARL 'TONY' Sparano Jr., who is considered one of the greatest bowlers of all time. He has won numerous awards and titles, including the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Player of the Year in 1989 and 1990. He was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in 1997.