Bjorn Borg spoke about his struggle with drugs after shocking end of career.

Bjorn Borg: shocking exit from tennis and overcoming difficulties

According to The Sun: The legendary tennis player Bjorn Borg spoke about his problems after his unexpected career end at the age of 26.

He is now 69 years old and won Wimbledon five times in a row from 1976 to 1980.

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This Swedish superstar, known as the Ice Borg, was famous for his cool demeanor on the court.

But the sudden end of his brilliant career led to serious issues with drugs, psychoactive substances, and alcohol.

Borg had previously stated that he tried cocaine only once, but now he reveals details of his extensive drug abuse that led to serious breakdowns.

In his new autobiography, he recounts how his wife Loredana Berte tried to intervene, and he had to have his stomach pumped after being found unconscious at a party.

“The first time I tried cocaine, my feelings were as powerful as when I played tennis,” he notes in his new book “Heartbeat”.

“I had no plan. Today people have goals. I got lost in this world.”

“I was using more drugs, there were pills, alcohol, to escape reality. I didn’t need to realize it. Of course, it is not good, it destroys your personality.”

Borg survived an overdose in 1989, after which he had to be hospitalized in Milan.

Return to tennis and fight against illness

He tried to return to tennis again in 1991 and played until 1994, but didn't win a single match.

“I was close to death many times. I rebuilt my life. I am very happy,” he shared.

Borg also reported that he lives 'day by day, year by year' after being diagnosed with 'extremely aggressive' prostate cancer. The disease is in its 'latest stage,' but he will fight 'every day like in the Wimbledon final.'

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He shared his experience on BBC Breakfast:

“I talked to the doctor, and he said it’s really, really bad.”

 

“He said you have these dormant cancer cells, and in the future it will be a battle,” he added.

“Every six months I have to undergo tests. I was tested two weeks ago. This is something I have to live with.”

He is currently in remission after surgery in 2024.

He confessed that he was checked “for many years” before being diagnosed in 2023.

Borg concluded:

“After all, you feel nothing – you feel fine, and then it just happens.”

“I hope I will be okay. I live day by day, year by year, I hope.”

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Bjorn Borg's recognition of his own struggles and battle with drugs and illness underscores how important psychological support and prevention are in the world of sports. His story may serve as a lesson for many facing similar challenges, reminding us of the importance of seeking help and caring for our health.

Today Borg continues to fight for his life and health, drawing from his own athletic achievements and demonstrating strength of spirit in the face of difficulties.