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Friday, 03 March 2006 |
Tennis legend Bjorn Borg sells off Wimbledon trophies
Tennis superstar Bjorn Borg has been forced to sell the five Wimbledon trophies he won between 1976 and 1980.
Bjorn Borg, who retired from the sport at 26, is reported to have
established a £40m fortune during his career, however, he has since
been twice divorced and become bankrupt.
"It's not easy to part with the trophies but I need some long-term
financial security for those close to me," said the 49-year-old tennis
legend.
"The time's right for them to pass to a collector or suitable institution," Bjorn Borg added.
As well as the five miniature replica trophies, Bjorn Borg is also
putting up for sale two rackets, which include the one he used in his
famous victory over John McEnroe at the 1980 final.
Auctioneers Bonhams said the unique status of the Bjorn Borg collection
made its financial value difficult to put a price on, but added that
the items are expected to make more than £200,000.
"Even though the symbols of my victories are being sold, what I will
always retain is the knowledge that for such a long time I was the
supreme world tennis champion," said Bjorn Borg.
Although Bjorn Borg had won 11 grand slam singles titles in an
incredible career, his early retirement saw him start an ill-fated
business career.
The Swedish player's Bjorn Borg Design Group company went under, which
forced him to sell his home in order to pay off the debts he owed.
Bjorn Borg tried to make a comeback in the early 1990s, but he
currently coaches young tennis players in Stockholm as well as having
several shops selling Bjorn Borg-branded clothes and footwear.
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Last Updated ( Friday, 10 March 2006 )
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