Five Sports Documentaries to Watch in 2024

Last year was an amazing year for games and storytelling. Alongside major international competitions such as the Olympics, Euro 2024, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the ICC World T20 there have been record-breaking performances, exciting departures, and stories beyond sports. From stories highlighting top athletes to memorable rivalries, here are five must-watch documentaries for 2024 that bring the excitement, drama and power of the world of sports to your screen.

Once in a Lifetime: Argentina

The 2022 FIFA World Cup was one for the history books. Although many documentaries focus on what happened in Qatar, Eli Mengem of COPA 90 and his team flew in the other direction – as far as Argentina – to take what the victory of the World really means to the public.

Through the lens of political ideology, cultural norms and the opinions of millions of people, the documentary explores the history of Argentine football, the weight of expectations on the team, and the joy of victory. Although many already know the results of the World Cup, Once in a Lifetime: Argentina it goes beyond the surface to show the incomparable passion and connection between football and the Argentine people.

Cinematography, interviews and stories are all arranged in a fun four-act format that one should not feel guilty about bingeing on.

Available at: COPA90’s YouTube Channel

Giannis: Amazing Journey

It seems that in this day and age, a single athlete’s story is rarely told beyond the field or their career. But Giannis: Amazing Journey he does, delving into the life of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.

From his beginnings as the son of Nigerian immigrants in Greece to his rise as an NBA star, the documentary explores not just his incredible personality but his growth as a person and player. His humble screen presence is almost captivating, drawing you deep into his story and the important role his family has played in his journey.

For basketball fans and non-basketball fans alike, this article is compelling and accessible. No in-depth knowledge of the game is required to appreciate Giannis’ incredible path to success, making it an inspiring watch for a wide audience. Most importantly, the documentary is not just an exaggeration; it goes to the heart of Giannis’ values, where he finds it, his commitment to family and his unwavering loyalty to his family, to his team, to his job.

Available on: Amazon Prime

Trial: The New Era of Team Australia (Season 3)

It returns for its third season, Test talks in three parts after Australia take on India, who have won four in a row over Australia, in the 2023 ICC World Test Championship and how they coped with a resurgent England and their style of play of “Bazball”.

What is unique about this discipline is that the story line has a clear structure, but it is not boring. Comments and discussions make it interesting, and different people bring it to life. While the earlier seasons show them as just boys who want to have a good time playing cricket, the latest season delves into the grit, fighting spirit and how far they will go to win.

Available on Amazon Prime

Simone Biles Rising

She has been cited as one of the longest running due to her strength in gymnastics, Simone Biles Rising is an honest, raw, behind-the-scenes look at the life and journey of the sport’s most decorated athlete.

This movie is intimate. Biles explores the sacrifices but also the pressure that comes with sustained success. Biles talks about her mental health, reasons for pulling out of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and how, despite being physically fit, doubts arose about something she didn’t understand.

The four-part documentary, directed by Katie Walsh, also delves into the risks, how her strict regime affected her body, how she prepared to compete at the 2024 Paris Olympics , and how he had to step up his game to compete. the defendant in the name of Rebeca Andrade. What is interesting is how it covers the history of gymnastics, giving us a general view of the sport.

Available on Netflix

America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders offers a fascinating look into the dynamic world of what it takes to be a happy leader—not just for any NFL team, but for the Dallas Cowboys—the most important team in the NFL.

The documentary looks at the often ambiguous choices that come with having an elusive “it”, and the sheer commitment women have to achieve this goal. It reveals the complexities that are otherwise present with a keen eye—the heavy scrutiny process, the pressure to work under the spotlight, and the constant scrutiny of body image and the politics surrounding it.

It is impossible not to be captivated by the story. Simply put, these are women who love their craft and are committed to it.

Available on Netflix