Top 10 sports documentaries to watch on Netflix from 2024

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Sports documentaries have become extremely popular, providing a distinctive combination of motivation and enjoyment for dedicated sports fans and casual viewers alike. With a wide range of compelling content, Netflix has become the platform of choice for sports documentary enthusiasts.

In this article, we present the top 10 sports documentaries available on Netflix that offer compelling stories, showcase remarkable triumphs, overcoming challenges and the extraordinary journeys of athletes. From basketball and football to motorsports and more, these documentaries are a must for sports fans looking for compelling stories.


Let’s take a look at the list of top 10 sports documentaries that you can watch on Netflix:

“The Last Dance (2020): relentless pursuit”

“The Last Dance: Relentless Pursuit” is an iconic basketball documentary series about the career of Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls during their dominant era of the 1990s. Featuring exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, this series provides unparalleled insight into Jordan’s rise to greatness, team dynamics and their relentless pursuit of championship glory. “The Last Dance: Relentless Pursuit” will captivate basketball enthusiasts and fans of extraordinary sports stories.

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“Sunderland ‘Til I Die (2018-present): Echoes of hope and heartache”

Dive into the emotional rollercoaster of English football with “Sunderland ‘Til I Die: Echoes of hope and heartache.” This intimate series offers an inside look at Sunderland AFC, capturing the unwavering loyalty of fans and the highs and lows of the lower league competition. Featuring exciting matches and passionate supporters, this documentary takes viewers on a harrowing journey, highlighting the enduring spirit of a club deeply rooted in its community. This remarkable series will captivate football fans and lovers of human stories in sports.

“Cheer (2020): The Unbreakable Spirit”

Experience the adrenaline-fueled world of competitive cheerleading through “Cheer: The Unbreakable Spirit.” This riveting series follows the nationally ranked Navarro College Bulldogs Cheer Team as they prepare for high-stakes competitions. With compelling personal stories, awe-inspiring athleticism and steadfast teamwork, “Cheer: The Unbreakable Spirit” offers a compelling exploration of a sport that is often underestimated. Witness the dedication, passion and determination of these athletes as they strive for perfection and turn their dreams into reality.

“Icarus (2017): Unmasking the Shadows”

“Icarus: Unmasking the Shadows” is a groundbreaking documentary that reveals the dark world of performance-enhancing drugs in sports. Filmmaker Bryan Fogel embarks on a daring investigation that uncovers the truth behind the Russian doping scandal. This compelling documentary exposes the tangled web of deceit, corruption and cover-up that plagues international sports organizations. “Icarus: Unmasking the Shadows” is a thought-provoking exploration of morality, responsibility and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of insurmountable challenges.

“Senna (2010): speed, spirit, legend”

Witness the exciting world of Formula 1 racing through “Senna: Speed, spirit, legend.” This moving documentary is a tribute to Ayrton Senna, the Brazilian racing icon. Using fascinating archive footage and gripping interviews, ‘Senna: Speed, Spirit, Legend’ follows Senna’s meteoric rise, intense rivalry with Alain Prost and the tragic events during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary talent, the unwavering determination and the enduring legacy of Senna, a racing legend that transcends the sport.

“The two Escobars (2010): Colliding fortunes”

The two Escobars: clashing fortunes” interweaves the gripping stories of Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar and Colombian footballer Andrés Escobar. This spellbinding documentary explores the complex relationship between drug cartels and football, culminating in the 1994 World Cup. Delve into the social problems, corruption and tragic consequences that Andrés Escobar faces after his own goal in the tournament. “The Two Escobars: Colliding Fates” exposes the complicated dynamics of crime and sport and sheds light on their profound impact on Colombia’s history and national identity.

“Pelé (2021): The Eternal King”

Dive into the dazzling world of football with “Pelé: the eternal king.” This intimate and comprehensive documentary reveals the remarkable life and career of the Brazilian football legend. Through rare interviews and compelling archival footage, ‘Pelé: The Eternal King’ celebrates his rise to fame, reveals the impact he had on the sport and sheds light on the challenges he faced both on and off the field. Immerse yourself in Pelé’s captivating charisma as this documentary showcases the greatness of a footballer who became a global icon.

“Drive to Survive (2019): On the Edge of Glory”

Brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping journey through the high-speed world of Formula 1 racing with ‘Drive to Survive: On the Edge of Glory’. This exciting series takes viewers behind the scenes and provides exclusive access to teams, drivers and their relentless pursuit of victory. Featuring exhilarating racing footage, candid interviews and compelling storylines, ‘Drive to Survive: On the Edge of Glory’ immerses viewers in the cutthroat world of high-speed competition. Experience the sacrifices, rivalry and unwavering determination of those who push the boundaries of human achievement.

“The Battered Bastards of Baseball (2014): unconventional heroes”

Prepare to get engrossed in “The Battered Bastards of Baseball: Unconventional Heroes,” a documentary that tells the fascinating story of the Portland Mavericks, an independent minor league baseball team in the 1970s. This inspiring documentary highlights the Mavericks’ unconventional approach to the game, their impact on the sport and the vibrant characters who shaped the team’s identity. A celebration of independence, love of the game and the underdog spirit, “The Battered Bastards of Baseball: Unconventional Heroes” offers an enchanting and uplifting story of passion and resilience.

“The short game (2013): rising stars”

“The Short Game: Rising Stars” follows the extraordinary journey of exceptional seven-year-old golf prodigies as they compete in the World Junior Golf Championships. This satisfying documentary showcases the dedication, talent and relentless determination of these young athletes as they deal with the pressures of competitive sport. Witness their dreams, the sacrifices they make and the limitless potential of these aspiring players. “The Short Game: Rising Stars” is a testament to the power of passion, resilience and the incredible spirit of youth in the pursuit of greatness.


Finally, we must say that Netflix offers an extensive selection of top sports documentaries, providing viewers with compelling and inspiring stories from the world of sports. From basketball and football to motorsports and more, these top 10 documentaries offer a compelling exploration of triumph, resilience and the indomitable human spirit.

Whether you’re a sports fan or just looking for exceptional storytelling, these Netflix documentaries are sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab some popcorn, sit back and be enchanted by these remarkable sports stories.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an objective “top 10” list??

Not necessarily. Preferences depend on what sport you like and the type of story you are looking for. This list provides a starting point with critically acclaimed and popular documentaries.

Which sports are covered in these documentaries?

There is a good variety! From regular sports such as basketball (“The Last Dance”) and Formula 1 (“Formula 1: Drive to Survive”) to more specific sports such as sumo wrestling (“Little Miss Sumo”).

Are there documentaries that focus on athletes overcoming challenges?

Absolute! Documentaries like “Undefeated” (high school football) and “Last Chance U” (junior college football) show perseverance and redemption.

Are there any inspiring stories about lesser-known sports?

Yes! ‘Icarus’, which starts as an anti-doping investigation, takes a shocking turn and ‘Ladies First’ tells the story of a young female archer in India.

I love documentaries that expose the dark side of sports. Are there people on this list?

Investigative documentaries such as ‘Athlete A’ (sexual abuse in gymnastics) and ‘Screwball’ (gambling scandal in Major League Baseball) deal with serious issues.

Is there anything for fans of classic sporting moments?

The Redeem Team (the comeback story of the U.S. Olympic basketball team) offers a nostalgic look at athletic excellence.

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