Boris Becker and Steffi Graf, iconic figures in tennis during the 1980s and 90s, etched their names in history with multiple Grand Slam victories, notably their triumphs at the 1989 Wimbledon Championships, a landmark moment for German sports. Yet, amidst their individual successes, their bond as friends and confidantes is a lesser-known aspect of their storied careers.
In his autobiography, “Boris Becker: The Player,” Becker offers insight into the profound friendship he shared with Graf, forged through the crucible of professional tennis. Reflecting on the early stages of their careers, Becker recalls the immense pressure they both faced and the shared journey they undertook, often traveling together from their hometowns of Bruhl and Leimen to Wimbledon and back.
Becker’s admiration for Graf transcended mere infatuation; it was rooted in a deep sense of connection and mutual understanding. He expressed, “As a woman, she fascinated me. It wasn’t the infantile falling in love of a teenager that made me want to get to know Steffi better. It was a deep feeling of affection, an unexpressed understanding between like-minded people who shared the same fate.”
One poignant moment that Becker recalls is from his second-round defeat at Wimbledon in 1987, where Graf’s unwavering support provided solace in the face of disappointment. Despite the loss and the disbelief of others, Graf stood by Becker, offering words of encouragement and comfort. Becker reminisced, “The victor, however, was Peter, not Boris… Only Steffi had consoling words for me. To this day she has no idea how much she helped me.”
While Becker has often lauded Graf for her support and friendship, his relationship with Graf’s husband and fellow tennis legend, Andre Agassi, was not as amicable. Their on-court battles translated into a strained off-court dynamic, marked by fierce competition and rivalry.
In the annals of tennis history, the camaraderie between Boris Becker and Steffi Graf stands as a testament to the enduring bonds forged amidst the rigors of professional sports. Beyond their individual achievements, their friendship remains a cherished chapter in the narrative of German tennis excellence.