Becker Feared for Life Twice in Prison; Sinner Sought His Coaching

Boris Becker, the renowned German tennis champion, recently shared insights from his challenging life experiences. In an exclusive interview, he reflected on his darkest days in prison and the path to recovery.

Life in Prison: A Fear for Life

Becker described his time behind bars as a profound struggle. He candidly admitted to having feared for his life on two separate occasions. A particularly harrowing incident involved an encounter with a violent inmate. “I had a desperate moment when a prisoner confronted me. I was just holding a lunch tray,” he recalled. Fortunately, other inmates intervened, shielding him from the conflict.

This encounter left a lasting impression on Becker. He recognized that respect among prisoners dictates the social order in prison. He noted, “In prison, respect is the unwritten law. Guards do not govern; the inmates do.”

From Champion to Inmate

Reflecting on his journey from being the youngest Wimbledon champion to facing incarceration, Becker acknowledged the stark contrast. “My story is a strange one,” he said, emphasizing that life’s trials have shaped his character. He now resides in Milan with his wife, Lilian, as they anticipate the arrival of their first child.

Coaching Request from Jannik Sinner

During his reflection, Becker revealed that rising tennis star Jannik Sinner had approached him in January 2022 to become his coach. At the time, Becker was awaiting a court ruling in London. He explained, “Jannik deserved guidance, but I couldn’t commit until my situation was clear.” He advised Sinner to consider Darren Cahill as a potential coach, expressing confidence in Cahill’s abilities.

• Becker’s recommendations included top-name coaches.
• Sinner has seen significant success with his current team, including winning four Grand Slam titles by age 24.

Becker’s Insight on Today’s Tennis

Now at 58, Becker has observed modern tennis players with a critical eye. He expressed concern over a lack of curiosity among younger athletes. “Today’s players often seem focused solely on their techniques, like forehands and backhands,” he stated. He urged the need for adaptability, suggesting that once athletes retire, they might struggle without their support systems in place.

Despite the challenges he faced, Becker concluded with a message of resilience. “I have learned that I can overcome even the worst situations,” he stated, embodying hope and determination.

Through his journey, Becker serves as an inspiration for both aspiring athletes and those facing their struggles, reminding us of the strength found in character and perseverance.