Boris Becker 'in talks' with BBC over commentary return after prison stint

20 March 2023 , 09:05

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Boris Becker is in talks with BBC bosses (Image: Getty Images)

Boris Becker has revealed he's in talks with BBC bosses over a return to his commentary work despite being banned from travelling to the UK.

In December, the tennis icon was deported back to his native Germany after being released from HM Prison Huntercombe. Having initially been sentenced to two-and-a-half-years in jail, after being convicted of four charges under the Insolvency Act, Becker served just eight months before being freed.

The 55-year-old won six Grand Slam titles in his storybook career, and post-retirement enjoyed a successful stint coaching Novak Djokovic. But much of his popularity centred around his role with the Beeb, where he became synonymous with their annual Wimbledon coverage.

Upon his release, Becker swiftly landed some punditry work again, and was part of the Eurosport Germany coverage of the Australian Open. However, he is currently forbidden from re-entering the UK for an undetermined period, a sanction which seemingly ends any hopes he may have had about being re-employed by the BBC.

But Becker has now teased he has 'plans' for a surprise return, although was coy over the finer details. “I’m one of many who have to work for a living, and I’m not ashamed of that," he said. “I’m planning to re-establish brand Boris Becker, because that ultimately pays the bills.”

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Becker also claims sponsors have stuck by him and discussions with the BBC are ongoing. The organisation themselves say there are “currently” no plans to work with the German star.

Becker first became a commentator for BBC Wimbledon in 2002 (Daily Mirror)

In his absence from SW19 last June, Becker was sent a message live on air by John McEnroe and Sue Barker, with the American saying: "Boris, we love you, we miss you man," during the Centre Court parade of former champions. Barker replied: "We do indeed."

Becker burst onto the tennis scene in 1995 by winning Wimbledon at the age of just 17, and remains the tournament's youngest ever champion. After leaving prison, he insisted his ordeal had made him 'stronger'.

In an online message to fans, he wrote: "I call this the most difficult year of my life. But it's done, it's dusted. I came out alive - I think I came out stronger. I think my mental health is better than ever.”

Fraser Watson