German tennis legend Boris Becker was discharged from bankruptcy court in London after a judge found that he had made reasonable efforts to repay creditors, even though he fell short of repaying the nearly $62.5 million he owed. Chief Insolvency and Companies Court Judge Nicholas Briggs praised Becker for being cooperative and providing information and assets to repay his debts. Despite not fully repaying his creditors, Briggs deemed it “perverse” not to end the case given Becker’s efforts.
Becker, now 56, was deported to Germany two years ago after serving 8 months in a London prison for illicitly transferring money and hiding assets after being declared bankrupt in 2017. He was convicted on charges under the Insolvency Act, including removal of property and concealing debt, but was acquitted of other charges. He was sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison, but was released early under a fast-track deportation program for foreign nationals. Becker rose to fame in 1985 when he became the first unseeded player to win the Wimbledon singles title at the age of 17. He went on to become world No. 1, winning titles at Wimbledon, the Australian Open, and the U.S. Open.
After retiring from professional tennis in 1999, Becker worked as a coach, television commentator, investor, and celebrity poker player. He blamed laziness and bad advice for his financial problems that led to bankruptcy. Despite this, Becker’s lawyer stated that they had reached a settlement with joint trustees to end the case, including a “substantial sum” that Becker must pay. The agreement also involves handing over outstanding trophies. Becker’s lawyer maintained that Becker had done all he could to bring himself to this point in the case.
Becker’s financial troubles stemmed from his owing creditors nearly $62.5 million over an unpaid loan of more than $3.75 million on his estate in Mallorca, Spain. Becker had declared bankruptcy in 2017, leading to his legal issues and eventual deportation. Despite the controversy surrounding his bankruptcy, Becker remains a tennis icon, having won numerous titles at some of the sport’s most prestigious events. Becker’s rise to stardom at a young age set the stage for a successful career in tennis, which continues to be celebrated despite his financial setbacks.
While Becker has faced legal challenges and financial struggles in recent years, his contributions to the sport of tennis and his impact on the game are undeniable. The judge’s decision to discharge Becker from bankruptcy court reflects the efforts he made to repay his debts and move forward from his financial troubles. With the case now concluded, Becker can focus on rebuilding his reputation and continuing his work in the tennis community. Despite the obstacles he has faced, Becker’s legacy as a tennis legend remains intact, and he will be remembered for his achievements on and off the court.
