Sports documentaries transcend the simplistic notions of victory and defeat, captivating audiences with their intricate depictions of the athlete's personal journey rather than solely focusing on their ultimate goals. Here are five of the most gripping and thrilling sports documentaries currently available to stream.
It’s All Over: The Kiss That Changed Spanish Football
Where to Watch: Netflix (From November 1)
The kissing scandal that rocked Spanish football last year during their FIFA World Cup triumph is the subject of Netflix's new documentary, It's All Over: The Kiss That Changed Spanish Football. While presenting the winning medals to the players, Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation, sparked outrage by kissing Jennifer Hermoso on the lips. Hermoso, Alexia Putellas, Irene Paredes and other members of the winning team reflect on the ramifications of a disgraceful conduct that rocked the nation.
Simon Biles: Rising Season 2
Where to Watch: Netflix
The third and fourth episodes of a much-anticipated Simon Biles: Rising Season 2 are now available on Netflix. While the first two episodes mainly focus on her mental ordeals and trauma, the next two cover her legendary comeback in the Paris Olympics, where she won three gold medals.
Alcaraz, the docuseries
Where to Watch: Netflix (January 2025)
Set to premiere next year, Alcaraz, the docuseries chronicles the life of Carlos Alcaraz on court in the 2024 season, a year where he won two majors and further established his credentials as the rising star of the game that has failed to produce any stars in last two decades. "I am very happy for this experience with Morena Films and Netflix,” Alcaraz said in a statement. “People are going to get to watch everything you don't see on a tennis court. I think it's something very different. I hope you enjoy this series as much as I will.”
Saudi Pro League: Kickoff
Where to Watch: Netflix (November 2024)
Netflix's latest sports documentary, Saudi Pro League: Kickoff, is set to capture the excitement and drama of the 2023/2024 season in the Saudi Pro League. When some of the biggest stars that dominated European football for decades decide to take a leap of faith in a country with no real sporting culture, it's only imperative that people know more about this fad. And, this documentary promises exactly that.
Countdown: Paul vs. Tyson
Where to Watch: Netflix (November 15)
Mike Tyson will come out of retirement to take on Youtuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in the most anticipated boxing clash of the year. The fight was supposed to be held in July this year but has to be postponed because of Tyson's illness. Paul, of course, has age on his side, but this could be potentially fatal for the 58-year-old Tyson.