Boris Becker - Tennis Canada

Becker Inducted into Rogers Cup Hall of Fame

July 21, 2008

German tennis legend Boris Becker was inducted into the Rogers Cup Hall of Fame on Monday as part of the opening night festivities.

Before the ceremony, Becker was joined on Centre Court by world No. 1 doubles player and Toronto native Daniel Nestor for an exhibition match. The two men traded memorable shots throughout the match, although Becker’s signature diving was absent.

“No, I’ve done that in the ‘90s. This century I haven’t done any diving for volleys anymore,” he said jokingly about his trademark.

Nestor didn’t take it easy on his opponent, winning the set 6-3, but the night was more about the induction than the match. Becker is one of the greatest tennis players the game has ever known, winning a total of six Grand Slam championships, 49 singles title and another 15 doubles crowns over his illustrious 15-year professional career.

“I am very, very proud and honoured,” said Becker of his induction. “It’s one of the biggest tournaments in the world. I saw the list this morning showing who’s attending again. It’s just a who’s who in tennis, and that’s been the storyline for this tournament for over twenty-five years.”

Becker now sits in the Rogers Cup Hall of Fame alongside past inductees Ivan Lendl, Roy Emerson, Bob Bedard, John McEnroe, Carling Bassett-Seguso and Sebastien Lareau.