Bjorn Borg: Current Tennis Stars Have One Key Obligation to the Sport
Tennis legend Bjorn Borg, regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the game, recently shared his thoughts on what today’s tennis stars owe to the sport that made them famous. Borg, who dominated the tennis world during the late 1970s and early 1980s, emphasized that with the growing global appeal of the sport, modern players have a key responsibility: to inspire the next generation.
In a recent interview, Borg reflected on how tennis has evolved since his time on the court, noting the increased athleticism, improved technology, and the heightened media exposure. Despite these changes, he believes that the essence of tennis remains the same—a sport built on skill, discipline, and mental toughness. With these advancements, Borg believes that today’s top players, like Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Carlos Alcaraz, have an obligation to uphold the integrity of the sport and serve as role models.
According to Borg, players must not only strive for success on the court but also demonstrate professionalism and sportsmanship off it. He noted that the way players conduct themselves during matches and in public can have a profound influence on aspiring athletes and fans. “Tennis stars today are not just athletes, they are ambassadors of the sport,” Borg said. “They have a responsibility to inspire future generations and leave the game in a better place than they found it.”
Borg also highlighted the importance of giving back to the tennis community. Whether through charity work, youth development programs, or simply taking time to engage with fans, he believes that players should actively participate in growing the sport at all levels. “It’s not just about winning titles,” Borg added. “It’s about nurturing the next generation and ensuring the future of tennis is bright.”
As a five-time Wimbledon champion, Borg knows firsthand what it means to carry the weight of expectations on and off the court. In his view, today’s stars are more than capable of meeting this challenge. “They have the platform, the influence, and the opportunity to inspire millions,” Borg said. “That is their obligation to tennis.”
Ultimately, Borg’s message is clear: while titles, records, and rankings are important, the true legacy of a tennis star lies in their ability to inspire and grow the game for future generations.
