Tennis Legend Boris Becker Fumes Over World Cup Incident: 'What a Joke'

Becker is far from the only one criticizing the mandatory hydration breaks. These breaks were introduced by FIFA for this World Cup to ensure players have extra opportunities to drink during matches, which are typically played in the heat of the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, that's not their sole purpose. During these breaks, the match broadcast is interrupted for commercials.

Not everyone appreciates the hydration breaks. Dissatisfied viewers argue that they disrupt the flow of the game, are used for tactical discussions, and/or that FIFA exploits them for additional advertising revenue. Among these disgruntled viewers is Boris Becker. While his specific grievances remain unclear, his displeasure is undeniable.

Becker took to X to voice his discontent. "Drink break," he sarcastically wrote in quotation marks. "What a joke in professional sports!!!" he concluded, tagging FIFA in his post. The message garnered over two thousand likes. Becker watched his home country, Germany, secure a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast on Saturday, following their dominant 7-1 win against Curaçao in their opening group stage match. With six points, Germany comfortably leads their group, which also includes Ivory Coast, Ecuador, and Curaçao.

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