Bankrupt tennis star Boris Becker has been accused of failing to hand over a string of trophies – including the 1985 Wimbledon cup that propelled him to stardom at the age of 17 – so they could be sold to settle his debts.
The 52-year-old German is also accused of failing to disclose information after being declared bankrupt in June 2017.
Trophies listed on a new 28-count indictment include his maiden Wimbledon trophy, his 1989 silverware from the same tournament, and his Australian Open trophies in 1991 and 1996.
He pleaded not guilty to all counts at a London court on Thursday and was told his trial would take place in September 2021, in a case brought by the insolvency service. He faces several years in jail if convicted.
Becker has allegedly concealed property holdings and more than £1 million ($1.3m) held in bank accounts.
“He is determined to face and contest these charges and restore his reputation in relation to the allegations made against him,” said Jonathan Caplan, Becker’s lawyer.
Becker is also accused of hiding hundreds of thousands of pounds by transferring it to other accounts, including to former wife Barbara Becker, and estranged wife Sharlely Becker.
He won 48 singles titles overall and enjoyed a successful spell from 2014 to 2016 coaching world number one Novak Djokovic.
