8 Underrated Tennis Movies
to Watch Right Now
8 Underrated Tennis Movies to Watch Right Now
The tennis world is filled with iconic matches and legendary players, and many directors have tried to capture the essence of our dynamic sport on screen. While some tennis movies have achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, others have slipped under the radar despite their compelling storytelling.
In this article, I shine a spotlight on underrated tennis movies, highlighting eight gems that deserve a spot on your watchlist. From heartwarming tales of triumph to gripping documentaries, these films and their well-crafted storytelling offer diverse narratives that will appeal to tennis enthusiasts and movie lovers alike, acing the entertainment experience.
My Top Picks At a Glance
Here’s my list of some less familiar and under-appreciated tennis movies at a glance. Although they don’t make many ‘best of’ lists, they’re some of my favorites, and I’ve found a cut above many of the blockbuster hits. In the following sections, I’ll detail the premise of each movie and why you’ll love them.
| Movie Name | Rating | Release | Genre | Length | Director (s) | IMDb Rating | IMDb Votes | Star(s) |
| Strokes of Genius | – | 2018 | Documentary | 1 hr 38 min | Andrew Douglas | 8.1 | 1,521 | Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Yves Allegro |
| Andy Murray: Resurfacing | – | 2019 | Documentary | 1 hr 48 min | Olivia Cappuccini | 7.8 | 1,243 | Sarah Muirhead Allwood, Shane Annun, Mark Bender |
| Untold: Breaking Point | – | 2021 | Documentary | 1 hr 8 min | Chapman Way, Maclain Way | 7.6 | 3,462 | Mardy Fish, Kevin O’connor, Tom Fish |
| Citizen Ash | – | 2021 | Documentary | 1 hr 35 min | Rex Miller, Sam Pollard | 7.3 | 368 | Johnnie Ashe, Beth Barnes, Loretta Burnette |
| Althea | – | 2014 | Documentary | 1 hr 32 min | Rex Miller | 7.2 | 77 | Althea Gibson |
| Love Means Zero | – | 2017 | Documentary | 1hr 29 min | Jason Kohn | 7.1 | 489 | Nick Bollettieri, Andre Agassi, Carling Bassett |
| Vernus and Serena | PG-13 | 2012 | Documentary | 1 hr 40 min | Maiken Baird, Michelle Major | 6.7 | 869 | Raul Arevalo, Arthur Ashe, Victoria Azarenka |
| Final Set | – | 2020 | Drama | 1 hr 45 min | Quentin Reynaud | 6.5 | 1,392 | Alex Lutz, Ana Girardot, Kristin Scott Thomas |
Strokes of Genius
‘Strokes of Genius’ is a master class in rivalry and sportsmanship. The story unfolds in 2008 when then five-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer faced Rafael Nadal for a five-set, five-hour, twice-rain-delayed battle.
Nadal had convincingly defeated Federer in straight sets at the French Open a month earlier, bringing the likelihood of a sixth Wimbledon title for the Swiss Maestro into question. The day’s tension isn’tt just a match but a personal and professional struggle, showcased through expert editing as the director weaves together old footage, interviews, and must-see clips.
The documentary doesn’t just show us two players but two human beings with their own fears, hopes, and dreams. We gain empathy for these already likable players and get to see their evolution, not just as athletes but as individuals. A particular nuance is that Nadal is interviewed in Spanish so he can fully express his experiences, adding a layer of authenticity and depth to his story.
Why you’ll love it: This documentary is for anyone – whether you love tennis or not. The story is told in an engaging manner that will intrigue just about everyone.
Andy Murray: Resurfacing
‘Andy Murray: Resurfacing’ is a documentary that follows British tennis champion Andy Murray on his two-year journey of treatment and recovery from injury. It’s an intimate look into a tough time in the player’s career when most would have given up.
Without sensationalizing details, Murray is shown at his most vulnerable, and we have the privilege of getting a glimpse behind the curtain, showcasing his grit, determination, and refusal to let his circumstances define him. The footage includes surgery and recovery at his home, including a distinct view of his unwavering commitment to returning to the sport he loves.
Through interviews with Murray, his family, and his team, Resurfacing offers a revealing look into the real life of a remarkable sportsman diving deep into Murray’s challenges and resilience. We’re left with a great sense of respect for Murray and his sheer determination.
Why you’ll love it: Raw, unfiltered authenticity and the inspiration of one of the sport’s greatest athletes.
Untold: Breaking Point
Netflix’s 2021 documentary series ‘Untold’ aims to uncover the truth “beyond the headlines” and behind some of sports’ most newsworthy stories. Earlier episodes include Caitlyn Jenner’s evolution and an infamous NBA rivalry between the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons. The final installment in season one follows the rise and fall of tennis star Mardy Fish.
Fish had fought against a severe anxiety disorder from his youth, and the episode details how this was his ultimate and tragic downfall. In 2012, Fish abandoned a quarterfinal clash against Roger Federer at the U.S. Open and announced a sudden retirement despite being the No. 1 ranked American on the ATP Tour.
Why you’ll love it: The episode unpacks some of the stigma around mental health in a sincere and challenging way.
Citizen Ashe
Arthur Ashe was plunged into activism when he tragically contracted HIV during a heart operation. ‘Citizen Ashe’ examines his career as a tennis player and as a voice for human rights.
Stylish and stoic, Ashe was in stark contrast to other activists of his day and yet made a significant impact on and off the tennis court. The film carefully crafts a balance of news footage, interviews, and sports highlights infused with Ashe’s speech. There is plenty of exciting tennis, including footage of Ashe against Jimmy Connors at Wimbledon, but the film also serves as a portrait of a critical moment in American political history.
Why you’ll love it: Ashe isn’t a clear-cut hero because his path to activism was far from linear. He was different from many other activists of his time, which makes for fascinating storytelling.
Althea
A bittersweet celebration of triumph in the face of discrimination – ‘Althea’ is a documentary film about the African American tennis player who burst through the color barrier.
Althea Gibson was not just the first African American to win a Grand Slam title in the 1950s; she symbolized hope and progress in a time of significant racial discrimination. In the Civil Rights Movement context, Gibson fought hard to be recognized, and her achievements are a testament to the human spirit. The film showcases her life and career, not just as a tennis player but as a pioneer, and pays homage to her legacy, which continues to inspire and uplift.
Why you’ll love it: Having retired from tennis in 1958, you might not have heard about Althea Gibson. The film brings this phenomenal woman and her story to a new and diverse audience.
Love Means Zero
‘Love Means Zero’ couldn’t have asked for a better title. It’s a portrait of the infamously callous tennis coach Nick Bollettieri, who certainly didn’t believe love or empathy had any place on the tennis court.
Bollettieri worked with A-list tennis stars during the course of his career, and these relationships were notoriously complex. These stars included Monica Seles, Jim Courier, Venus and Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, Boris Becker, and Mary Pierce. Andre Agassi, speaking volumes by his silence in this documentary, was a particularly controversial relationship and a focal point of the documentary.
Despite shedding a not-so-flattering light on Bollettieri, Love Means Zero was filmed with the infamous coach’s complete cooperation, showcasing his true character. He speaks candidly and without sentimentality in an exciting exploration of his side of the story without glorifying his demeanor.
Why you’ll love it: Bollettieri is unfiltered and unapologetic, making for fascinating viewing. At one point, he even quips, “If you ask me right now to give you the names of my eight wives, I couldn’t do it.”
Venus and Serena
This film highlights a more contemporary piece of tennis history. Venus and Serena Williams are two of the greatest of all time and are also known for being incredibly private. Yet, this film allows a personal look into their struggles and triumphs.
The pair have won a combined 30 major singles titles and became the first sisters to occupy the top two spots in tennis simultaneously, lending itself to a film narrative. During the movie, we follow them through a particularly challenging season in 2011. Venus received a diagnosis of the autoimmune disease Sjogren’s syndrome while Serena battled to make a come-back from 11 months off after a complicated surgery.
While the story itself will be familiar to fans, the film is a triumphant depiction of family and fortitude. Venus and Serena have traveled an incredible journey from the streets of Compton to the courts of Wimbledon, and it is beautiful to see their outstanding achievements in a single narrative.
Why you’ll love it: Venus and Serena – enough said. They are likable, inspiring, and definitely worth celebrating.
Final Set
‘Final Set’ tells the fictional story of a tennis player who hasn’t achieved what he hoped. Thomas is 37 and swiftly approaching retirement, but desiring one more attempt at fame, he decides to compete in the qualifying rounds of the French Open.
The film features stellar acting and cinematography and showcases some great tennis. We gain insight into the torment of an athlete plagued by his failures – it’s emotional without being sentimental. While many reviewers have lamented the ending, this film is still worth the watch.
Why you’ll love it: Most tennis movies feature success stories. It’s refreshing and honest to look into the life of a talented player who never achieves what he had hoped.
Wrapping Up
There’s no shortage of popular and well-publicized tennis movies, but these hidden gems were certainly worth my time.
Whether you’re a die-hard tennis fan looking for a new perspective on the sport or simply someone searching for a captivating story, these movies will surely hit the mark. So grab your popcorn and settle in for some great viewing!
What’s your favorite movie? Let me know in the comments below.
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