Novak Djokovic issues plea to UK authorities as Wimbledon champion banned from country | Tennis | Sport
Novak Djokovic has issued a heartfelt plea to the UK authorities to let Boris Becker back into the country so he can return to Wimbledon. Djokovic began his 2026 campaign with a win on Monday evening, defeating Wu Yibing 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4.
The Serb, who is still in search of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, will now face former French Open finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second round. While unlikely at this stage, triumph at the All England Club this summer would represent Djokovic’s eighth Wimbledon title and would also draw him level with the great Roger Federer.
The pair are already considered two of Wimbledon’s greatest-ever champions, along with Becker, who might have only won three Championships but is still revered as one of the best ever to play on Centre Court. And that’s why Djokovic wants to see Becker back in the building, with the German currently banned from entering the UK after serving a prison sentence.
Speaking after his first-round win, Djokovic put the pressure on by saying: “Actually texted with him before Wimbledon. 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.
“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, most success.”
The former world No.1 added: “Boris for me is a very dear friend, and 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 was a regular on the BBC‘s Wimbledon coverage before his incarceration. The 2026 Championships continue from the All England Club and will run for the next two weeks.
