Boris Becker, the legendary tennis player, might face jail time after being found guilty on Friday of stealing thousands of dollars from a bank account after being declared bankrupt. Becker was found guilty of four offences under the Insolvency Act, by a jury in London's Southwark Crown Court. It includes removal of the property, hiding debt, and two counts of failing to report estate.
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The six-time Grand Slam champion had denied all the charges
Following his June 2017 bankruptcy, the German star transferred hundreds of thousands of pounds from his business account to other accounts. It includes that of his ex-wife Barbara and estranged wife Sharlely "Lilly" Becker.
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He also received charges of not declaring a house in Germany and concealing an 825,000 euro bank loan and interests in a technology company. Also, he was acquitted on 20 other charges. Those include failing to hand over his numerous medals, which included two Wimbledon trophies and an Olympic gold medal.
However, the six-time Grand Slam champion had disputed all of the allegations. He claimed that he had cooperated with trustees entrusted with preserving his assets – even handing over his wedding ring – and acted on expert advice.
It is very difficult when you are bankrupt- Boris Becker
Becker, 54, testified that his $50 million career earnings had been wiped out. The reason was payments for an "expensive divorce". Also, debts were incurred after he lost substantial parts of his income after retirement.
He said he had "expensive lifestyle commitments". Those include a house in Wimbledon that cost 22,000 pounds ($28,800) in rent each month. However, he said bad publicity had damaged "brand Becker," making it hard for him to earn enough to pay off his debts.
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"It is very difficult when you are bankrupt and in the headlines every week for it," he told the jury. "It is very difficult to make a lot of money with my name." Nevertheless, the charges carry a maximum sentence of seven years in prison. Becker was granted bail until a sentencing hearing on April 29.