Wimbledon 2018: Watch BBC TV presenter Sue Barker tells off Boris Becker live on air for swearing
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Boris Becker was told to curb his language by presenter Sue Barker after swearing on air during the BBC's Wimbledon coverage.
The German, who won the Wimbledon men's singles three times in the 1980s, was in conversation with Barker and nine-time women's champion Martina Navratilova.
Before play got under way, Barker invited Becker to explain the events that have seen him make headlines recently.
The former world No 1 was declared bankrupt in June 2017, but has recently asserted his right to diplomatic immunity following his appointment as an attache for the Central African Republic.
Navratilova suggested Becker wanted to not have to wait in line at passport control.
Becker, in high spirits, said: "That's one of the things my friend told me - 'You b*****d, you don't have to wait in line now'."
Long-time Wimbledon presenter Barker apologised, saying: "Apologies for that." She followed by adding: "Watch your language from now on."
Becker realised his error and replied: "Excuse me, I'm sorry."
Now 50, Becker explained his link to Africa.
He said: "I was asked by the ambassador of the Republic of Central Africa (sic) at the beginning of the year whether I want to get involved on a diplomatic level to help the country get back on its feet, as an attache for sports, culture and human efforts and I was honoured.
"I met the president - His Excellency Mr (Faustin-Archange) Touadera - in Brussels and in Paris a number of times and they gave me official documentation, they gave me a passport."
The authenticity of his passport has been questioned by Central African Republic officials, Becker added.
"Unfortunately the foreign ministry made some comments about it (being a) false passport," he said.
"So I asked the same questions because I'd like to help the country and I was asked by the president, I was asked about the ambassador, and I'm sure the president will find a solution very soon."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments