The early bird might get the worm. But perhaps it isn’t always good for one.
Boris Becker has admitted he regrets winning Wimbledon at just 17 years old, saying the weight of expectations that followed his historic triumph made life extremely difficult.
In 1985, the German stunned the world by defeating Kevin Curren in the final to become the youngest men’s singles champion at Wimbledon. Becker’s fearless, flamboyant style turned him into an overnight sensation, but it also left him struggling to cope with the spotlight.
The Burden of Being a Prodigy
Speaking to BBC Sport, Becker reflected on the challenges of achieving global fame so young.
“If you remember any other wunderkind, they usually don’t make it to 50 because of the trials and tribulations
that come after,” the 57-year-old said.
“Whatever you do, wherever you go, whoever you talk to, it becomes a world sensation. It becomes the headline of some of the most important papers of tomorrow. And you’re just trying to mature, just trying to find your feet in the world.”
Becker would go on to win five more Grand Slam titles, including two more at Wimbledon in 1986 and 1989. But he now believes his breakthrough came too early.
“I’m happy to have won three Wimbledons, but maybe 17 was too young. I was still a child.”
Life Beyond the Court
Following his retirement in 1999, Becker remained a popular figure in the sport, enjoying a successful stint as Novak Djokovic’s coach between 2013 and 2016, helping the Serb capture six Grand Slam titles during their partnership.
However, away from the court, Becker faced major personal and financial struggles.
In 2022, he served eight months in prison in England after being sentenced to two-and-a-half years for hiding £2.5 million ($3.3 million) worth of assets and loans to avoid paying debts. Upon release, he was deported from the United Kingdom.
Lessons From a Stormy Journey
Reflecting on his fall from grace, Becker admitted that his wealth and privilege early on created a dangerous environment.
“I was too comfortable. I had too much money. Nobody told me ‘no’. Everything was possible. In hindsight, that’s the recipe for disaster,” he said.
Now, Becker insists his focus is on accountability and building a new future.
“You take accountability for your actions, which is very important because you cannot look back anymore. You cannot change the past. You can only change the future because you live in today.”
(with AFP inputs)
