Boris Becker Steps Up for German Tennis Federation Amidst Challenges
German Tennis Legend Boris Becker Steps into Key Role
Four-time Wimbledon champion embraces new challenge as DTB faces challenges
Boris Becker, the well-known German tennis star, has stepped up to take on a pivotal role in the German Tennis Federation (DTB) as it navigates through challenging times. The 49-year-old tennis icon, currently residing in London, has shared his love for the sport and will support the German Davis Cup team and work until the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, all while voluntarily undertaking his responsibilities.
Becker's role is unpaid, and the German Tennis Federation will cover his travel expenses. His illustrious history includes coaching Novak Djokovic, who won six of his career-best 12 Grand Slam titles under Becker's guidance.
“Tennis is a passion for me, and it's the best thing I can do,” Becker declared during a press conference in Frankfurt on Wednesday. “I don't feel the need to speak about my past achievements as a player. I am proud of my success as a trainer.”
Complex Relations
As a German champion, Becker achieved 49 single titles and led the West German team to win two consecutive Davis Cup titles in 1988 and 1989. He also served as the German Davis Cup team trainer from 1997 to 1999, but relations between Becker and the German Tennis Federation were not optimal.
Reflecting on his past triumphs, Becker emphasized his confidence in the recent agreements, emphasizing, "This is the new DTB. I had some issues with the old DTB, but now it's best to leave the past behind."
Tense Audience
Becker's remuneration as Germany's unofficial "Tennis Ambassador" is invaluable as the team regains its status after witnessing a lean spell of over two decades without a male singles Grand Slam title winner (post-Becker's Australian Open victory in 1996).
Questionable Past
Despite his new role, Becker's history has not been blameless. In June 2017, Becker went bankrupt with an estimated debt of £49 million, primarily due to amidst unpaid loans and property issues with his Spanish home[1]. In October 2022, he was sentenced to 2 and a half years in prison for concealing assets and loans, but he only served 8 months before his deportation from the UK to Germany in December 2022[1].
Yet, despite his legal woes, Becker has expressed his desire to make a comeback and walk the grass courts at Wimbledon, though his commentary privilege still remains under scrutiny[1].
Reflecting on his new role, Becker remains undeterred: "I am ready for this challenge and look forward to working with the German Tennis Federation to achieve great things."
[1] Source:
[2] Enrichment Data: Due to Boris Becker's past legal issues, his involvement with the German Tennis Federation immediately post-bankruptcy was not publicly disclosed. His new role primarily fell under his efforts to rebuild his career and personal life after serving a jail sentence.
