Sports documentaries have a unique way of blending the thrill of athleticism with human stories that inspire, educate, and entertain. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or someone who enjoys compelling narratives, these films and series offer a glimpse into the challenges, triumphs, and sacrifices of athletes and teams. Here, we’ve curated a list of the best sports documentaries to watch in 2024, ensuring a mix of classics and the latest releases.
“The Last Dance” (2020)
Why Watch It: Michael Jordan is an icon, and this Netflix series dives deep into the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty, focusing on their 1997-98 season. “The Last Dance” isn’t just about basketball; it’s a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and teamwork.
Highlight Moments:
- Exclusive interviews with Jordan and other key players.
- Behind-the-scenes footage of one of the most successful teams in NBA history.
Where to Watch: Netflix
“Welcome to Wrexham” (2022-Present)
Why Watch It: This docuseries chronicles the journey of Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney as they purchase Wrexham AFC, a struggling football club in Wales. The series beautifully captures the cultural importance of football in small communities and the emotional investment of its fans.
Highlight Moments:
- The heartfelt stories of local fans.
- The unexpected challenges of managing a football club.
Where to Watch: Hulu, Disney+
“Break Point” (2023)
Why Watch It: From the creators of “Formula 1: Drive to Survive,” this Netflix series takes you inside the world of professional tennis. Focusing on rising stars and established players, “Break Point” reveals the mental and physical toll of competing at the highest level.
Highlight Moments:
- Behind-the-scenes access to Grand Slam tournaments.
- Insights into the lives of players like Nick Kyrgios and Iga Swiatek.
Where to Watch: Netflix
“Untold” Series (2021-Present)
Why Watch It: The “Untold” series on Netflix delves into some of the most dramatic and controversial moments in sports history. Each episode is a standalone story, making it easy to pick and choose based on your interests.
Notable Episodes:
- “Malice at the Palace”: The infamous NBA brawl.
- “The Rise and Fall of AND1”: Exploring the streetball phenomenon.
- “Caitlyn Jenner”: A look at her journey as an Olympian and beyond.
Where to Watch: Netflix
“Free Solo” (2018)
Why Watch It: Winner of the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, “Free Solo” captures Alex Honnold’s breathtaking climb of El Capitan without ropes. This film is as much about conquering fears as it is about physical achievement.
Highlight Moments:
- Stunning cinematography of Yosemite National Park.
- Honnold’s unflinching focus and preparation.
Where to Watch: Disney+
“Drive to Survive” (2019-Present)
Why Watch It: Formula 1 has seen a surge in global popularity, thanks to this Netflix series. “Drive to Survive” offers unprecedented access to drivers, teams, and the high-octane drama that unfolds on and off the track.
Highlight Moments:
- The fierce rivalry between drivers.
- Behind-the-scenes glimpses of team strategies and conflicts.
Where to Watch: Netflix
“The Redeem Team” (2022)
Why Watch It: This Netflix documentary recounts the U.S. men’s basketball team’s journey to reclaim Olympic gold at the 2008 Beijing Games. Featuring stars like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, it’s a tale of redemption and teamwork.
Highlight Moments:
- Kobe Bryant’s unforgettable leadership.
- Insights into how the team rebuilt its reputation after a disappointing 2004 Olympics.
Where to Watch: Netflix
“All or Nothing” Series (2016-Present)
Why Watch It: This Amazon Prime series takes you inside the locker rooms of some of the world’s most renowned sports teams. From the NFL to European football clubs, “All or Nothing” offers an all-access pass to the highs and lows of professional sports.
Notable Seasons:
- “Arsenal” (2022): Focusing on the English Premier League club.
- “The Dallas Cowboys” (2017): A deep dive into America’s Team.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
“The Weight of Gold” (2020)
Why Watch It: Narrated by Michael Phelps, this HBO documentary explores the mental health challenges faced by Olympic athletes. It’s a poignant reminder of the pressure and sacrifices behind the glory.
Highlight Moments:
- Athletes opening up about their struggles.
- The call for better mental health support in sports.
Where to Watch: HBO Max
“King Richard” (2021)
Why Watch It: While technically a biographical film, “King Richard” offers documentary-like insights into the early lives of Venus and Serena Williams. Starring Will Smith as their father, Richard Williams, it’s a powerful story of determination and vision.
Highlight Moments:
- The depiction of Richard’s unconventional coaching methods.
- The rise of Venus and Serena in a predominantly white sport.
Where to Watch: HBO Max
“Athlete A” (2020)
Why Watch It: This Netflix documentary uncovers the sexual abuse scandal involving USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar. It’s a harrowing yet important watch that highlights the bravery of survivors and the need for accountability.
Highlight Moments:
- Interviews with gymnasts who came forward.
- Investigative reporting that led to justice.
Where to Watch: Netflix
“Rising Phoenix” (2020)
Why Watch It: This Netflix documentary celebrates the achievements of Paralympic athletes while exploring the history and significance of the Paralympic Games. It’s an uplifting and eye-opening film.
Highlight Moments:
- Inspiring stories of athletes overcoming adversity.
- Stunning visuals of Paralympic competitions.
Where to Watch: Netflix
“Ice Guardians” (2016)
Why Watch It: This documentary explores the role of enforcers in ice hockey, players whose primary job is to protect their teammates. It’s a fascinating look at a controversial aspect of the sport.
Highlight Moments:
- Personal stories of enforcers.
- Insights into the physical and emotional toll of the role.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
“Kobe Bryant’s Muse” (2015)
Why Watch It: This Showtime documentary offers an intimate look at the life and career of the late Kobe Bryant. It’s a reflective and emotional journey through the mind of one of basketball’s greatest players.
Highlight Moments:
- Kobe’s thoughts on his career highs and lows.
- His relentless pursuit of greatness.
Where to Watch: Showtime
“Pumping Iron” (1977)
Why Watch It: A classic in the sports documentary genre, “Pumping Iron” captures Arnold Schwarzenegger’s path to bodybuilding glory. It’s a fascinating mix of competition and charisma.
Highlight Moments:
- Arnold’s mind games with competitors.
- The culture of bodybuilding in the 1970s.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Emerging Documentaries in 2024
As of 2024, new documentaries are on the horizon, promising fresh perspectives and untold stories:
- Untitled Lionel Messi Documentary (2024) – After leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, this documentary will explore Messi’s unparalleled career and his impact on football.
- Women in Sports Series (2024) – A multi-part series highlighting female athletes breaking barriers across various disciplines.
- AI and Analytics in Sports (2024) – Examining how technology is revolutionizing player performance and fan engagement.
Conclusion
Sports documentaries go beyond the games to tell stories of resilience, ambition, and humanity. From tales of redemption to explorations of mental health, these films and series offer something for everyone. Whether you’re revisiting classics like “Pumping Iron” or diving into the latest releases like “Break Point,” 2024 promises a rich selection of inspiring and entertaining sports documentaries. Grab some popcorn and immerse yourself in these unforgettable stories!
FAQs about Best Sports Documentaries
What are the most highly recommended sports documentaries of all time?
Popular choices include The Last Dance (2020), Free Solo (2018), Senna (2010), Icarus (2017), Hoop Dreams (1994), and The Redeem Team (2022). These documentaries are celebrated for their storytelling and impact on viewers.
What new sports documentaries were released in 2024?
Some recent releases include Sprint (Netflix), which explores the lives of world-class sprinters preparing for the World Athletics Championships, and Champions: Full Gallop (ITV), showcasing the 2023-24 horse racing season.
Where can I stream the best sports documentaries?
Platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, Apple TV+, and HBO Max host a wide range of sports documentaries. Availability depends on your region.
Which sports documentaries are ideal for non-sports fans?
Documentaries like Free Solo and Cheer focus on human resilience and determination, making them appealing even to those who aren’t sports enthusiasts.
Why are sports documentaries so popular?
They combine the excitement of sports with compelling human stories of struggle, victory, and perseverance, making them relatable and inspiring for a broad audience.
What are the best sports documentaries currently on Netflix?
Top Netflix picks include The Last Dance, Break Point, Drive to Survive, Untold series, and Rising Phoenix. These explore various sports and their cultural impact.