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Tennis ace Boris Becker denies hiding his cash before declaring bankruptcy
Tennis legend Boris Becker was told he could face up to seven years in jail today if found guilty as he denied a string of criminal charges over his bankruptcy.
The German multiple Grand Slam winner is accused of hiding millions along with properties and bank accounts from the Insolvency Service.
He was declared bankrupt in June 2017, and last year faced claims that he had failed to fully declare his estate to the Official Receiver.
The 52-year-old former tennis star appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court accused of not complying with obligations to disclose information.
He is accused of concealing millions, along with two properties in Germany and a flat in Chelsea, west London which he was required to deliver up to the trustee to the estate.
The court heard he is also accused of hiding shares in an artificial intelligence firm and a 825,000 euro (£750,000) debt.
He pleaded not guilty to 19 charges of failing to disclose money and property between May 2017 and June 2017.
Becker, of Battersea, south west London, faces a maximum of seven years in prison if he is found guilty of the 19 charges.
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He is charged with ten counts of concealing property from the bankruptcy receiver or trustee and two charges of failing to disclose property.
The tennis champion is also charged with three counts of failing to disclose details of an estate, concealing a debt, and three charges of omission in a statement of affairs by a bankruptcy.
Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot granted the star, who is being prosecuted by the Insolvency Service, conditional bail.
He will next appear at London's Southwark Crown Court for a preliminary hearing on October 22.
Becker earned the nickname 'Boom Boom' after winning his first Wimbledon as a 17-year-old.
He secured millions in prize money during a trophy-laden career.
His Grand Slam singles titles included three Wimbledons, two Australian Opens and one US Open.
He also won five year-end championships, 13 Masters Series titles and an Olympic gold medal.
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