Germans could use a bit more humour, says Becker
Berlin
Three-time Wimbledon champion Boris Becker thinks Germans could use a bit more humour.
'I'm known for my sense of humour. Not every German can say that. I've noticed this quality has somewhat faded here,' said the former tennis star during an event in Berlin on Thursday with an advertising partner.
Becker, who hasn't lived in Germany for many years, said he considers humour to be a fundamental part of a person's character.
Still, the former world number 1 said he's had his share of awkward moments with jokes over the course of his career.
'People often didn't know whether I was being ironic or serious. In Germany, you often have to announce: 'Attention! Here comes irony,'' the 57-year-old said, adding that he's since become more cautious.
Together with his wife, Lilian de Carvalho Monteiro, Becker is currently demonstrating his sense of humour in commercials for a mail-order window company.
He remains a familiar face in Germany thanks to advertisements, public appearances and as a commentator. He lived in London for many years.
Since retiring in 1999 with six Grand Slam titles, Becker has struggled to replicate his sporting success, becoming a regular subject of gossip coverage amid financial and personal difficulties.
In 2022, he was imprisoned in Britain for seven and a half months for concealing assets to avoid paying money he owed after his bankruptcy.
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