In a stunning revelation that rewrites tennis history, Swedish icon Björn Borg has finally disclosed the true catalyst behind his shocking retirement from professional tennis at the peak of his career.
The eleven-time Grand Slam champion, renowned for his ice-cool demeanour on court, confessed that cocaine use played a significant role in his decision to abandon the sport abruptly in 1983, aged just 26.
The Downfall of a Sporting Legend
Borg's admission paints a tragic picture of a champion struggling with the immense pressure of global fame. 'I got involved with the wrong people and started taking drugs,' the former world number one revealed during a candid interview with The Times.
His cocaine use, he admits, directly contributed to his loss of motivation and ultimately his departure from professional tennis. 'When you are high, you feel like you can't lose. But the next day, the reality hits hard,' Borg explained, describing the vicious cycle that consumed him.
A Career Cut Short
The tennis world watched in disbelief when Borg, winner of five consecutive Wimbledon titles and six French Open championships, walked away from the sport. His retirement marked the premature end of one of the most dominant careers in tennis history.
Despite attempting a comeback in 1991, Borg never regained his previous form, winning only one match upon his return. His confession now provides the missing piece to a puzzle that has baffled sports fans for decades.
Beyond the Glory
Borg's story serves as a powerful cautionary tale about the dark side of sporting success. The athlete, who became a global superstar and teen idol, struggled profoundly with the psychological burden of constant victory and public scrutiny.
'You win and people expect you to win the next time. When you lose, it's a disaster,' he reflected, highlighting the immense pressure that contributed to his downward spiral.
Today, at 67, Borg speaks with the wisdom of hard-earned experience, his confession offering both closure and a sobering reminder of the human vulnerability behind sporting greatness.
