LEIMEN, Germany — Like a 15th-century king returning from a triumphant battle, Wimbledon champ Boris Becker returned to his home town of Leimen Friday.
It was a welcome befitting a king.
The red carpet was rolled out at the town square. Almost ever store front in Leimen was decorated with flags, welcoming signs and pictures of the returning king — Becker.
Songs were played in the street that praised his feats and told the story of how he defeated the higher-rated Kevin Curren from the American kingdom.
In Leimen (just south of Heidelberg) people partook of Boris Becker bread, cake, sandwiches and even Wimbledon Steak a la Boris Becker.
Bands marched through the streets in traditional dress while more than 15,000 spectators waited in hot weather to catch a glimpse of the returning monarch.
"I'm very excited," said Spec. 4 James Sangster, "I've lived in Germany for nine years. I'm an American but I'm still very proud of him."
Sangster is assigned to the USAREUR Band and Choir.
"Good for him," said Rosemarie Evans, an American. "it is great that anyone 17 years old can achieve so much — and done in so little time."
Becker has become a teen idol. Young girls waited more than four hours for his arrival. They called his name and swooned when he passed by in his motorcade.
Sabine Herrmann, 17, from near Frankfurt, caught a train with her friend Marion Kotterba, also 17, in hopes of meeting Becker.
"I like him!" said Herrmann enthusiastically. "I am very proud but we must all remember that Boris is the winner, not Germany."
"I am so hot and it is so cramped but it is worth the wait," said Kotterba. "It is a shame that we must wait so long to see him."
Becker entered the town square signing autographs, receiving flowers and waving to throngs of loyal supporters. He signed the Golden Book in city hall, reserved for people honored by the city.
From the city hall balcony, Becker said in a five-minute speech, "I feel better at Centre Court than at the podium."
Becker thanked his parents, his trainer and all the people, crediting his victory to them.
King Boris proceeded to a private party at the Blue and White Tennis Club, were Becker learned to play tennis starting at the age of 5.
Whether the world will claim Becker as the king of tennis is questionable. But in Leimen there is no doubt — "Becker is the best."
