We have carefully selected only those tennis movies that truly deserve viewers’ attention. This list includes both feature films and documentaries, each revealing unique stories of athletes, coaches, and the entire world of professional tennis. These films inspire, evoke emotions, and allow us to better understand what lies behind victories and defeats on the court.
King Richard
The story of the famous sisters Serena and Venus Williams, who became tennis superstars thanks to the efforts of their father, Richard (Will Smith). Richard Williams was a strict and unyielding father who loved his family and dreamed of taking them out of Compton, the neighborhood where they lived. To achieve this, he was determined to do everything in his power.
He focused on his daughters Venus (played by Saniyya Sidney) and Serena (played by Demi Singleton), creating detailed life plans for them. He wanted them to become successful stars and chose tennis — a sport traditionally dominated by white men. Despite his love and confidence in their success, the question arises: was Williams too controlling, pushing them too hard? Did his determination to achieve fame and victory affect his relationship with his daughters and family?
Borg vs. McEnroe
This film is based on real events and a legendary tennis match. Björn Borg was passionate about tennis since childhood. In Sweden, the sport was not at its peak, and his talent was not recognized immediately. He could have ended his career early, but he remained committed to his dream of reaching the top. Through relentless training and surrounding himself with the right people, Borg surpassed even the boldest predictions and won numerous titles.
Now Björn is on the brink of a record: the fifth Wimbledon title. His opponent is the young and ambitious John McEnroe. The American is the complete opposite of the calm Swede: hot-tempered, constantly arguing with referees, smashing rackets, and clashing with reporters. Yet his talent is undeniable, and some even say he might surpass Borg. Their decisive match became a highlight not only of the tournament but of tennis history itself.
Battle of the Sexes
A biographical film about the rivalry between two professional athletes who wanted to prove which gender was stronger. The events took place in 1973, when 55-year-old Wimbledon champion Bobby Riggs faced 29-year-old Billie Jean King. The match gathered millions of viewers and became a cultural milestone, showing that sports can be a platform for the fight for equality.
Challengers
In 2019, tennis player Art Donaldson faces a career crisis. To restore his confidence, his wife and coach Tashi suggests participating in an ATP Challenger tournament. Once a promising athlete herself, Tashi was forced to end her career after a knee injury and now invests all her energy in her husband’s success. In the final, Art must face his former best friend and Tashi’s ex-boyfriend, Patrick Zweig. For both, victory becomes a matter of principle and a test of the past.
Break Point
Talented but rebellious tennis player Jimmy once again ruins his relationship with his doubles partner. Left without a teammate, he comes up with an unusual idea — to invite Nick, who once played alongside him.
Nick, however, has left tennis and now works as a schoolteacher. Persuaded by his family during his vacation, Nick agrees to return as Jimmy’s partner. Soon, another character joins them — a boy deprived of parental love — giving the story a new emotional dimension.
Wimbledon
This romantic drama was filmed during the 2003 tournament, with official permission from the organizers. Against the backdrop of the world-famous courts unfolds a love story. Peter Colt, once a top player, has lost his form and is preparing to retire, planning to move into coaching. But his meeting with rising star Lizzie Bradbury and their unexpected love changes his destiny, giving him a second chance in tennis and in life.
The Final Set
Thomas Edison was once a tennis prodigy, but by the age of thirty-seven he never fulfilled his potential. With a knee injury, declining physical form, but also a family and a loving wife Eva, Thomas decides to take one last chance and participate in the French Open qualifying. Though his wife and mother oppose his decision, he is determined to fight for victory.
Federer: Twelve Final Days
On September 14, 2022, after 24 years in professional tennis, Roger Federer announces his retirement. Before leaving, he competes at the Laver Cup in London, representing Team Europe alongside Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, and Rafael Nadal. A few days later, Federer steps on the court with Nadal — his friend and rival — to play the final match of his brilliant career.
Love Means Zero
This documentary explores the life of Nick Bollettieri, the legendary coach who trained a generation of champions at his academy. His personal life, marriages, finances, and relationships often suffered from his obsessive dedication to tennis. Among the most affected was his cherished student, Andre Agassi, with whom his relationship changed forever.
Andy Murray: Resurfacing
A documentary film following Andy Murray’s devastating injury journey between 2017 and 2019. From operating rooms to the intimate corners of his home, the audience witnesses Andy at his most vulnerable. Considered Britain’s greatest sportsman, Murray endures unimaginable challenges to return to the sport he loves.
