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March 06, 2006
Borg forced to sell off trophies
Tennis legend Bjorn Borg is selling the five Wimbledon trophies he won between 1976 and 1980.
Borg, who retired at 26, is reported to have established a £40m fortune during his career but has since been through two divorces and a bankruptcy.
"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.
"The time's right for them to pass to a collector or suitable institution."
In addition to the five miniature replica trophies, Borg is also selling two rackets, including the one he used in his classic victory over John McEnroe in the 1980 final.
Auctioneers Bonhams said the unique nature of the collection made its financial value difficult to estimate, but added that the sale is 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," added Borg.
He won 11 grand slam singles titles in a glittering career, but his early retirement saw him launch a turbulent business career.
The Swede's Bjorn Borg Design Group company went under, forcing him to sell his home in order to pay off debts.
Borg attempted a tennis comeback in the early 1990s, but now coaches young players in Stockholm as well as having a chain of shops selling Bjorn Borg-branded clothes and shoes.
Posted by admin at March 6, 2006 02:57 PM