The odd pair: Novak Djokovic & his coach Boris Becker

By Akshay Sawai
Novak Djokovic is relishing his third Wimbledon victory. But a few weeks ago, he suffered one of the crushing defeats of his career in the final of the French Open.

In the aftermath of the loss, Djokovic's coach, the former world No. 1 Boris Becker, made some untimely comments. Among other things, Becker said, Djokovic and Roger Federer did not like each other.

This was never a secret, and the tense relationship between the two stars became apparent in the viral clip of Federer brushing past Mr and Mrs Djokovic in the All England Club corridor after the Wimbledon final. But it was surprising that Becker would make such a statement, that too during a crucial part of the season. Coaches don't do that. The mental equilibrium of an athlete is a fragile thing. Nothing that can damage it is done by his supporting team.

In his pomp in the 80s and 90s, Becker was among the world's sporting elite. His tall frame, intellectual curiosity and acrobatic game lent him aura.

Part of the philosophical image was convenient. For all his concern about the world and the obscene amounts of prize money in the game, Becker never stopped making a fortune for himself. Ivan Lendl, Becker's contemporary and unabashed capitalist, called him a limousine radical. Yet, there was no doubt that Becker was different. He at least was aware of the world beyond tennis.

Now, however, Becker has become a William Shatner type of figure, puffy and with a tendency to plant his foot in his mouth. And therefore his association with Djokovic, a man who likes everything in his universe just so, is a surprise.

Djokovic must have facepalmed when Becker made those comments about Federer and him. And later when Becker suggested he coached Djokovic during matches, which is against the rules. Djokovic also must not have been flattered when Becker said, a few days ago, that tennis will struggle if Federer and Nadal retire. And that Djokovic and Murray alone were not enough to carry the sport. Days after the Wimbledon final, Becker even posted a picture of Federer on Facebook, calling him the greatest player in history. It could be that Becker is being gracious. It could also be that he is assuaging Federer, who was not pleased with the remarks about his relationship with Djokovic.

It is clear that Becker is not going to be muzzled just because he is Djokovic's coach. He is first and foremost Boris Becker, a celebrity in his own right. This was the reason few believed the Becker-Djokovic combo would last.

But somehow, it has. And thrived too. Under Becker, Djokovic has won three majors. He has solidified his grip on the No.1 ranking. This could be a coincidence. Or maybe Becker has helped him with the mental aspect and net game, two areas in which Becker was strong during his playing days. At times, maybe it is just good to have him around.

After his Wimbledon win, Djokovic said, "Right now whenever you're winning, obviously everybody feels happy and it's easy to say positive things. But in the tough times, Boris was there, as was the entire team. They were encouraging me to keep going, supporting me. That's a unity that keeps us together and allows us to experience these beautiful moments."

As long as Djokovic is winning, he will endure Becker's refusal to be diplomatic. Besides, it does make things interesting. Carry on Boris.

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