"I never thought at 17, I'd be incarcerated at 54": Becker admits prison humbled him and shows status means nothing

Sunday, 09 April 2023 at 07:00

Boris Becker spoke about his time in prison and how unexpected his experience was.

In 2022, Boris Becker pleaded guilty to illegally transferring large sums of money, hiding assets and loans outside the law, and declaring bankruptcy with debts of over $3 million. The German was sentenced to two and a half years in prison but reached a deal that allowed him to be released after 8 months.

Regarding his time in prison, the 6-time Grand Slam champion confessed how his imprisonment was:

"I never thought at 17 I'd be incarcerated at 54. If anything it certainly humbled me, it certainly made me realise that whether you're called Boris Becker or Paul Smith, if you break the law, you get convicted and you get incarcerated, that goes for everybody," Becker said.

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He also reflected on having experienced moments of glory in tennis and then being imprisoned years later.

"I never expected the good and I certainly didn't expect the bad but I'm a survivor, I'm a tough cookie, I've taken the penalties, I've taken the incarceration," the German said.

"But I've also taken the glory and if anything this made me a stronger, better man," he added.

"With my decisions in the future you can see whether I have learned from.”

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The former world No.1 commented that he was surrounded by dangerous people and that life in prison is a daily struggle for survival.

"Whoever says that prison life isn't hard and isn't difficult I think is lying. I was surrounded by murderers, by drug dealers, by rapists, by people smugglers, by dangerous criminals," Becker said.

"You fight every day for survival. Quickly you have to surround yourself with the tough boys, as I would call it, because you need protection," he added.

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Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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