5 Sports Docos That Made Me Feel Qualified For The Olympics
And just like that, it’s time for the 2024 Olympics and Paralympic Games.
Every four years, the greatest athletes in the world gather to compete for gold, glory and global recognition. Similarly, every four years I am reminded of just how little I understand sport.
Having said that, I love to lean in, and inevitably find myself absolutely captivated by the excitement and emotion the Olympics brings us.
If you simply can’t wait until 27 July 2024, 3:30 am AEST (thanks Google) to stream as much sport as possible, here are five epic sport documentaries that will get you ready for the games.
Simone Biles: Rising
Where to watch in Australia: Netflix
It’s not at all surprising that Simone Biles’ two-part Netflix documentary, Simone Biles: Rising, dismounted, spun in the air several times and landed on Rotten Tomatoes with a score of 100%. After all, the 27-year-old American gymnast is known for being, well, perfect.
Simone Biles: Rising follows the highly decorated Olympian and World Gymnastics Champion as she shows us life behind the leotards and teaches us about a terrifying concept called the “twisties”; an anxiety-inducing phenomenon that plagues athletes and struck Simone during the Tokyo Olympic games in 2021. We learn about the enormous pressure these tiny athletes are put under, and unpack the psychology of performing on a global stage with the entire nation’s expectations upon your toned shoulders.
While the documentary is short and sweet, it’s a fascinating look into the world of competitive gymnastics, the bravery it takes to align your mind and body, and the surreal reality of predominantly competing against yourself.
Federer: Twelve Final Days
Where to watch in Australia: Prime Video
Another absolute GOAT.
Roger Federer, synonymous with tennis and good sportsmanship, captured the final days of his illustrious tennis career, and boy is it emotional.
While the footage was initially intended for his private use, producers obviously cottoned onto the fact that the world is in love with this man and this is a moment in the sport’s history that should be documented. From the moments before he posts his retirement announcement on Instagram, to the tears in the locker room after his final ever match, this documentary makes you feel lucky to have lived in the same era as this athlete.
With appearances from Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray, as well as beautiful footage with wife Mirka, his parents and two (!) sets of twins, Federer: Twelve Final Days is a captivating look at the end of an era.
Sprint: The World’s Fastest Humans
Where to watch in Australia: Netflix
“Ever since Usain Bolt retired, who is going to be that next 100 metre champion?” That is the question!
From the creators of the hugely popular Drive To Survive and Break Point, Sprint: The World’s Fastest Humans is entertaining from minute one.
The six-part documentary series follows the biggest athletes in track and field, including Americans Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson, Jamaica’s Shericka Jackson and Italian Marcell Jacobs. These might not be household names to us normies, but they’re absolute superstars in the world of sprinting and are all blessed with main character energy, which we learn is a prerequisite of track and field.
An exciting and engrossing look into the mental, emotional and physical preparation it takes to be the fastest in the world.
Giannis: The Marvellous Journey
Where to watch in Australia: Prime Video
Giannis: The Marvellous Journey is a beautiful examination of NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo’s career thus far.
A son of Nigerian immigrants living in the outskirts of Athens, Giannis was inspired as a child by the American basketball players he would research at the local internet cafe. His love of and dedication to the sport led to his incredible draft in 2013, when he was selected as a rookie for the Milwaukee Bucks.
While Giannis is an incredible athlete, what shines through this documentary is his heart and resilience, as we watch this young man navigate a professional sporting career alongside the perils of immigration and a family tragedy.
Ladies First
Where to watch in Australia: Netflix
If you’re looking for a short yet hugely impactful watch, Ladies First will not disappoint.
Following the remarkable story of Deepika Kumari, an Indian girl who became the number one female archer in the world at just 18, this documentary is educational, emotional and empowering.
Ladies First examines the devastating gender inequality and poverty India faces, making Deepika’s journey even more remarkable. Now 30-years-old, she has her sights set on Olympic Gold, so she certainly will be one to watch in Paris.
More of an sporty book fan? Audible has you covered! Get into the sporting spirit with inspiring stories from Australian and International athletes, such as “Able” by Dylan Alcott, “Against The Water” by Owen Wright, “Body Lengths” by Leisel Jones and “26 Marathons” by Meb Keflezighi.
Written by Lil Friedmann, who unfortunately won’t be competing in the Olympic Games this time round.You can follow her at @lilfriedmann on socials.
Image credit: Netflix + Punkee