Novak Djokovic has appealed to the UK Government to allow Boris Becker to return to the Wimbledon championships. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, revealed he had contacted Becker before the tournament to inquire about his presence at the All England Club.
Becker, who coached Djokovic from 2013 to 2016 and contributed to six Grand Slam victories during that period, is currently barred from entering the United Kingdom. This follows his sentencing to two-and-a-half years in prison for concealing assets and loans totaling £2.5 million to evade taxes. He was released after serving eight months and was subsequently deported in 2022, with his early release terms prohibiting his return to the UK. Becker is reportedly in ongoing discussions with the Home Office regarding his potential return.
"I actually texted with him before Wimbledon," Djokovic stated after his first-round match. "I asked him what's the situation because I don't know if he has permission to come into UK or not. Unfortunately, still not."
Djokovic added, "I think I'm not the only one that would love to see Boris back to Wimbledon and to be able to, you know, just be here, be present. He's a legend of our game. He was my ex-coach. Worked with him three years during probably my best time of my career with the most success."
He continued, "Boris is a very dear friend. I really care about him and his family. I sincerely hope he'll be able to be allowed to come back. He's the youngest-ever men's champion. He has a special connection to this place. I don't know if this can help. I hope that the authorities will consider that."
Becker, who first won the Wimbledon title at age 17 in 1985, secured two more Wimbledon titles, along with two Australian Opens and one US Open during his career. He retired from professional tennis in 1999 and transitioned to a career as a commentator.
"I don’t think I miss London, but I miss Wimbledon," Becker told The Telegraph. "It’s my birthplace, in a sense. I feel so close to the club, to the courts. I have a story on every court, in every corner, in the locker room, in the car park. I probably know Wimbledon better than anyone else alive."
Djokovic advanced to the second round of Wimbledon following a 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 victory over Yibing Wu. His next match is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon in the Round of 64 against Stefanos Tsitsipas.