By Alberto Amalfi | @Tennis_Now | Saturday, May 13, 2023
Novak Djokovic captured six Grand Slam titles working with coach Boris Becker.
The world No. 1 said he admires Becker's mental strength, candor and commitment to rebuilding his life after a humbling bankruptcy, jail time and deportment from Great Britain.
Gauff: GOAT Nadal RG Favorite Any Day
"Boris is a dear friend, of course my former coach. I've had amazing success in my career with him in my box as a coach," Djokovic told the media in Rome. "He's one of the mentally strongest people I know.
"Considering what he was going through in the last couple of years, coming out still walking tall and proudly, it's something that I admire. We all try to navigate through life in the best possible way. We all make mistakes."
In May of 2022, Becker was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in jail for hiding hundreds of thousands of pounds in assets after his 2017 bankruptcy.
The former world No. 1 served less than a year of his sentence before he was released and then deported from Great Britain before Christmas.
Reigning Australian Open and Wimbledon champion Djokovic said he hopes to see Becker in Paris at Roland Garros this month.
"A great friend and dear person to me in my life. I wish him all the best," Djokovic said of Becker. "I can't wait to see him. I didn't see him in the last few months since he's out. Hopefully soon in Paris get a chance to meet with him.
"I see he's doing some talks, sharing his story. I'm sure that a lot of people can get inspired and learn from what he has to say. He sincerely is so open in sharing that, showing who he is, a very, very honest person."
Photo credit: Novak Djokovic Instagram