Boris Becker, a name that resonates with tennis fans worldwide, is one of the sport’s most iconic figures. From his meteoric rise as the youngest Wimbledon champion at 17 to his tumultuous personal life and recent resurgence in the public eye, Becker’s story is one of unparalleled highs and challenging lows. This article delves into his illustrious career, personal life, controversies, recent developments, and what people are searching for about him on platforms like YouTube and Google, providing a comprehensive look at the man behind the “Boom Boom” nickname.
Early Life and Rise to Stardom
Born on November 22, 1967, in Leimen, West Germany, Boris Becker showed an affinity for tennis from a young age. Joining the Tennisclub Blau-Weiß Leimen at the age of seven, Becker quickly emerged as a natural talent. His powerful serve, aggressive playing style, and unrelenting determination set him apart in junior tournaments, earning him a spot in Germany’s junior national team. By his teens, Becker was already a force to be reckoned with, catching the attention of coaches and scouts worldwide.
The Wimbledon Breakthrough: 1985
On July 7, 1985, at just 17 years and 227 days old, Becker made history by becoming the youngest men’s singles champion at Wimbledon. Defeating Kevin Curren with a commanding performance, Becker’s victory was a seismic moment in tennis, earning him the nickname “Boom Boom” for his thunderous serves and volleys. This triumph not only made him a national hero in Germany but also a global sensation. His fearless approach and acrobatic dives on the grass courts of Wimbledon captivated audiences, marking the beginning of a storied career.
A Stellar Tennis Career
Becker’s 1985 Wimbledon victory was just the start. He went on to win six Grand Slam singles titles: Wimbledon in 1985, 1986, and 1989, the Australian Open in 1991 and 1996, and the US Open in 1989. His aggressive baseline play, coupled with a formidable serve, made him a dominant force on the ATP Tour. Becker reached the world No. 1 ranking and held it for a total of 12 weeks, showcasing his consistency at the highest level. His rivalry with players like Stefan Edberg and Andre Agassi produced some of the most memorable matches in tennis history.
Olympic and Davis Cup Success
Beyond Grand Slams, Becker’s achievements extended to team competitions. In 1992, he partnered with Michael Stich to win the Olympic gold medal in men’s doubles at the Barcelona Games, a proud moment for German tennis. Becker also played a pivotal role in Germany’s Davis Cup victories, helping the nation secure the title three times. His leadership and clutch performances under pressure cemented his legacy as one of Germany’s greatest athletes.
Coaching and Mentorship
After retiring from professional tennis in 1999, Becker transitioned into coaching and commentary. Most notably, he coached Novak Djokovic from 2013 to 2016, a period during which Djokovic won six Grand Slam titles. Becker’s insights into the mental and tactical aspects of the game were instrumental in Djokovic’s dominance. Additionally, Becker has been a respected commentator, offering expert analysis for networks like Sky Sports, though he was notably absent from the BBC’s Wimbledon coverage in 2025.
Personal Life: Love, Family, and Relationships
Becker’s personal life has often been as headline-grabbing as his tennis career. He has been married three times and has five children from four different women, with his fifth child expected in 2025. His first marriage to Barbara Feltus in 1993 produced two sons, Noah (born 1994) and Elias (born 1999). The marriage ended in a high-profile divorce in 2001, with a £10 million settlement.
Becker’s second marriage to Dutch model Lily Kerssenberg in 2009 resulted in a son, Amadeus, born in 2010, but the couple split acrimoniously in 2018. A brief relationship with Russian model Angela Ermakova in 1999 led to the birth of his daughter Anna in 2000, a story that became tabloid fodder due to the infamous “broom cupboard” encounter.
In September 2024, Becker married Lilian de Carvalho Monteiro, a political risk analyst with a master’s degree, in a romantic ceremony in Portofino, Italy. The couple announced in June 2025 that they are expecting their first child together, Becker’s fifth. Becker has described Lilian as a transformative figure in his life, particularly during his challenging times, noting her support when he had “nothing else to offer.” Their relationship has been a focal point of recent media coverage, with the couple spotted enjoying romantic outings in Milan and Portofino.
A Complicated Family Dynamic
Despite the complexities of his personal life, Becker insists his family remains strong. His children, now adults and teenagers, have pursued their own paths, with Anna Ermakova gaining attention as a model and singer. Becker’s openness about his relationships, particularly in his 2023 Apple TV documentary Boom! Boom! The World vs. Boris Becker, has shed light on the challenges of balancing fame, family, and personal mistakes. In the documentary, he reflected on how his infidelity contributed to the breakdown of his first marriage, acknowledging the pain it caused.
Controversies and Legal Troubles
Becker’s post-tennis career has been marred by significant legal and financial troubles. In 2002, he received a suspended sentence for tax evasion in Germany, but far greater challenges awaited. In 2017, Becker was declared bankrupt by a London court, owing millions to creditors. In 2022, he was sentenced to two and a half years in prison at Southwark Crown Court for hiding £2.5 million in assets and loans, a violation of bankruptcy laws. Becker served seven and a half months before being released in December 2022 and deported to Germany under a UK regulation allowing foreign prisoners to be repatriated.
The bankruptcy saga and subsequent imprisonment were low points in Becker’s life, drawing intense media scrutiny. However, he has since expressed gratitude for the support of his wife Lilian, who stood by him during this period. In interviews, Becker has described the experience as humbling, emphasizing his determination to rebuild his life.
Public Perception and Redemption
Becker’s legal troubles have led some to label him a “disgraced” star, yet his resilience and charisma have kept him in the public eye. His return to Wimbledon commentary with Sky Sports in 2025, after being snubbed by the BBC, was seen as a triumphant comeback. Posts on X reflect ongoing fascination with his story, with some celebrating his 1985 Wimbledon win’s 40th anniversary and others noting his ability to remain “unapologetically himself” despite scandals.
Recent Developments: 2025 Updates
In July 2025, Becker made headlines for his emotional reaction to fellow German tennis player Alexander Zverev’s Wimbledon press conference. Zverev, after a first-round exit, opened up about his mental health struggles, admitting to feelings of loneliness and a lack of joy. Becker, speaking on the Boris Petkovic podcast, revealed he cried watching the conference, expressing concern for Zverev’s well-being.
He reached out to Zverev afterward, highlighting his role as a mentor and empathetic figure in the tennis community. This moment underscored Becker’s own understanding of the pressures of fame and the importance of mental health, a topic he has increasingly championed.
Celebrating 40 Years Since Wimbledon 1985
July 2025 marked the 40th anniversary of Becker’s historic 1985 Wimbledon victory. To celebrate, he and Lilian vacationed in Portofino, where they were photographed enjoying a romantic beach day. Becker shared his gratitude on Instagram, reflecting on how that victory at 17 shaped his life.
The milestone prompted tributes from figures like Jürgen Klopp and Markus Söder, as well as media retrospectives on his impact on tennis. Despite his absence from Wimbledon’s official commentary team, Becker’s legacy as a three-time champion and seven-time finalist remains untarnished.
Expecting a Fifth Child
One of the most talked-about developments in 2025 is Becker’s announcement that he and Lilian are expecting their first child together. Shared via a heartfelt Instagram video, the news was met with congratulations from fans and media alike. The couple’s public appearances, including in Milan and Portofino, have showcased Lilian’s baby bump and their evident affection, with Becker describing the pregnancy as “a tiny miracle.” This new chapter has fueled speculation about whether it could mark a stabilizing force in Becker’s often chaotic life.
Career Highlights and Matches
YouTube searches for Boris Becker reveal a strong interest in his tennis legacy. Fans frequently seek out footage of his 1985 Wimbledon final, iconic matches against rivals like Edberg and Agassi, and compilations of his powerful serves and diving volleys. Videos titled “Boris Becker’s Best Wimbledon Moments” or “Boom Boom Becker Highlights” are popular, reflecting nostalgia for his aggressive playing style. Tutorials analyzing his serve technique also attract aspiring players, while interviews with Becker discussing his career, such as his 2025 ATP chat, draw viewers interested in his insights.
Documentaries and Interviews
The 2023 Apple TV documentary Boom! Boom! The World vs. Boris Becker remains a top search, offering an in-depth look at his rise, fall, and personal struggles. YouTube clips from the documentary, particularly those addressing his prison experience and relationships, garner significant views. Recent interviews, such as his Stern magazine feature discussing Lilian’s impact or his Boris Petkovic podcast episodes, are also trending. Fans are curious about his reflections on tennis, mental health, and his current life.
Controversies and Personal Life
Searches related to Becker’s controversies are prevalent, with users looking for news clips about his 2022 imprisonment, bankruptcy details, and the “broom cupboard” scandal. Videos titled “Boris Becker’s Downfall” or “What Happened to Boris Becker?” explore his legal battles and financial missteps. His relationships, particularly with Lilian and his children, also spark interest, with fans seeking updates on his growing family and past marriages. Recent YouTube content focusing on his 2025 baby announcement and Portofino vacation has seen high engagement.
Coaching and Commentary
Becker’s time as Djokovic’s coach and his commentary work are popular topics. Fans search for videos of Becker analyzing current players, such as his 2025 Wimbledon guide praising Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper. Clips from his Sky Sports appearances during Wimbledon 2025, where he returned to the spotlight after the BBC snub, are widely viewed. Searches for “Boris Becker coaching tips” or “Boris Becker on Novak Djokovic” reflect his enduring influence in tennis circles.
Becker’s Legacy and Future
A Resilient Legend: Boris Becker’s journey is a testament to resilience. From a teenage prodigy to a global icon, he has navigated the peaks of sporting glory and the depths of personal and legal challenges. His ability to remain relevant, whether through commentary, coaching, or personal milestones, speaks to his charisma and determination. Posts on X highlight this duality, with some calling him a “fallen star” and others a “resilient legend.”
Looking Ahead: As Becker approaches his late 50s, his focus appears to be on family and redemption. The impending arrival of his fifth child with Lilian marks a new chapter, one that he hopes will bring stability. His continued involvement in tennis, through commentary and mentorship, ensures his voice remains influential. With his 40th Wimbledon anniversary celebrated in 2025, Becker’s legacy as the youngest champion endures, inspiring new generations of players and fans.
Why Becker Still Captivates: Becker’s story captivates because it is quintessentially human. His triumphs on the court, coupled with his public struggles, make him relatable yet larger-than-life. Whether it’s his emotional response to Zverev’s vulnerability, his candid reflections on past mistakes, or his joy at becoming a father again, Becker remains a figure of fascination. YouTube and Google searches reflect this, with fans eager to revisit his glory days, understand his controversies, and follow his journey of reinvention.
FAQs
What is Boris Becker doing now?
As of 2025, Boris Becker works primarily as a tennis coach, commentator, and analyst. He has coached top players like Novak Djokovic in the past. Becker is also involved in business ventures and occasionally appears in media and public speaking engagements.
What controversies has Boris Becker been involved in?
Boris Becker has faced several controversies, including legal and financial troubles. Most notably, he was declared bankrupt in 2017 due to financial difficulties. Later, in 2022, he was convicted in the UK for failing to declare assets during bankruptcy proceedings and served a prison sentence. Becker has since been rebuilding his personal and professional life.
Where can I watch highlights of Boris Becker’s best matches?
You can find Boris Becker’s match highlights on YouTube, official ATP Tour channels, and sports streaming services. Popular matches include his 1985 Wimbledon final and his battles against rivals like Stefan Edberg and Ivan Lendl.
Is Boris Becker married? Does he have children?
Boris Becker has been married twice and has several children. His personal life has been widely covered in the media. As of recent updates, he is focused on family and maintaining a lower public profile regarding his private life.
In Summary
Boris Becker’s life is a tapestry of extraordinary achievements and personal trials. From rewriting tennis history at 17 to facing prison and rebuilding his life, he has lived in the spotlight for over four decades. His recent milestones returning to Wimbledon commentary, celebrating his 1985 victory, and expecting a fifth child show a man determined to move forward. As fans continue to search for his highlights, controversies, and personal updates on YouTube and Google, Becker’s legacy as a tennis legend and a complex human being remains as compelling as ever.
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