Sports documentaries continue to thrill and inspire by offering a raw and unfiltered look at the world of competitive athletics. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of a particular sport or simply love compelling storytelling, this year’s selection of sports documentaries is better than ever. From behind-the-scenes footage of elite athletes to emotional profiles and stunning career comebacks, these films bring the action, drama, and heart right to your screen.
Here are some of the top sports documentaries you can’t miss in 2024.
1. “Quarterback” (Netflix)
This Netflix original series dives deep into the lives of NFL quarterbacks both on and off the field. Following the journeys of Patrick Mahomes, Kirk Cousins, and Marcus Mariota, the documentary gives fans an unprecedented look at the pressures and rewards of leading a team at the highest level of football.
Why watch it? “Quarterback” blends fast-paced game-day action with intimate moments of family life, mental preparation, and locker room motivation.
2. “Welcome to Wrexham” – Season 2 (FX/Hulu)
Returning for another season, this docuseries follows Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s ownership of the Welsh soccer club Wrexham AFC. What began as a quirky celebrity purchase has transformed into a heartfelt journey to revive a struggling football team and a community’s pride.
Why watch it? This show isn’t just about soccer—it’s about hope, community, and passion. The emotional highs and lows of the Wrexham supporters provide some of the most touching moments in modern sports storytelling.
3. “Full Swing” (Netflix)
If golf hasn’t historically been your sport of choice, “Full Swing” might change your mind. This documentary series from the creators of “Drive to Survive” puts the PGA Tour under the spotlight, examining the lives, rivalries, and challenges of professional golfers like Rory McIlroy and Justin Thomas.
Why watch it? It offers a compelling mix of on-course action and off-course drama that captures the complexity of golf at an elite level.
4. “The Redeem Team” (Netflix)
A must-watch for basketball fans, this documentary tells the story of the 2008 U.S. Olympic men’s basketball team as they seek redemption after a disappointing performance at the 2004 Athens Olympics. With star players like Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade, the film captures their journey toward reclaiming their dominance in international basketball.
Why watch it? The documentary is packed with emotion, behind-the-scenes insights, and historic footage that brings to life one of Team USA’s most important Olympic campaigns.
5. “Break Point” (Netflix)
From the same team behind “Drive to Survive”, this tennis-focused series follows the next generation of top players trying to make names for themselves in a sport dominated by legends like Federer and Nadal. The series is as much about mental resilience as it is about athletic performance.
Why watch it? You’ll gain a deep appreciation for the mental challenges faced by athletes in a sport with no teammates—and no room for error.
6. “BS High” (HBO)
This shocking documentary delves into the audacious story of Bishop Sycamore High School, a fake football program that deceived its way onto ESPN. With exclusive interviews and jaw-dropping revelations, “BS High” examines the systemic failures that made such a fraud possible.
Why watch it? It’s part sports story, part true crime, and entirely captivating.
7. “Formula 1: Drive to Survive” – Season 6 (Netflix)
F1 racing continues to soar in global popularity, in no small part due to this groundbreaking series. Season 6 takes viewers inside the 2023 season with personal interviews, tense races, and high-stakes rivalries. Even non-F1 fans will find themselves hooked after a single episode.
Why watch it? It captures the intensity, drama, and human emotion behind one of the fastest sports on earth.
Honorable Mentions
- “Untold: Johnny Football” – A gritty glimpse into the rise and fall of college football star Johnny Manziel.
- “The Deepest Breath” – A visually stunning tale of freediving, risk, and passion.
- “Steph Curry: Underrated” – Chronicles the incredible journey of one of basketball’s greatest shooters.
Whether you’re into the mental chess of tennis, the adrenaline rush of motorsports, or the community love of lower-league football, this year’s sports documentaries offer something for everyone. These films don’t just showcase athleticism—they reveal the personal and emotional stories that define the human spirit behind the game.
So grab your remote, settle in, and get ready to be inspired.