The Best Movies About Tennis

Tennis is a classy sport. It’s a sport of poise, passion, and pressure—and all the drama that unfolds on the court is absolutely perfect for the silver screen. From the real-life world-famous rivalries to fun and fab fictional stories, tennis movies, when done well, can really capture the intensity of competition and the personal stories behind the players. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the sport – or just someone who likes checking out the Wimbledon betting odds once a year, there’s something about watching the game played out in film that gets us excited and on the edge of our seats.

So, with that being said, here are some of our favourite tennis-themed movies that serve up more than just a few aces.

Battle of the Sexes (2017)

One of the most iconic moments in tennis history ever, has to be the 1973 exhibition match between the world No.1 female – Billie Jean King and the ageing former champion Bobby Riggs. And Battle of the Sexes, with Emma Stone and Steve Carell, brings the ground-breaking event to our screens with a big dollop of charm and nuance.

The film isn’t just about tennis. It’s about gender politics, the media hype, and personal identity, and it’s all set against the backdrop of a match that was as much about culture as it was about the sport. It’s a must-watch – not just for tennis fans but anyone who’s interested in social history.

Borg vs McEnroe (2017)

In the same year, we were also treated to this Scandinavian-British co-production, which takes a closer look at the famously intense rivalry between the ice-cold Björn Borg and the hot-headed John McEnroe. Shia LaBeouf is superb as McEnroe, while Sverrir Gudnason does a top job portraying the emotionally bottled-up Borg.

The film looks at the psychological pressure of top-level tennis and builds up to that legendary 1980 Wimbledon final—one of the greatest ever played. The tension feels real, and it’s a film that will definitely appeal to those who like a flutter on Wimbledon each summer, awaiting that next all-time classic.

King Richard (2021)

Will Smith memorably earned an Academy Award for his portrayal of Richard Williams, the very determined and pretty controversial father of Venus and Serena Williams. It tells the story of how a man with absolutely no tennis background put together a 78-page plan to turn his daughters into global superstars – and it’s fair to say it worked.

The film isn’t totally about tennis as a sport, but more about belief, resilience, and parenting. That said, the training sequences and match scenes are pretty impressive —and watching Venus take her first steps onto the pro stage is actually quite emotional.

Wimbledon (2004)

If you want a bit of romance with your racket action, then this British rom-com should hit the spot. Wimbledon, with Paul Bettany and Kirsten Dunst, is all about a bit of a washed-up British player who finds new purpose—and new love—just in time for one last attempt at glory on Centre Court.

It’s charming, cute, lighthearted, and quintessentially British. The tennis action might be a bit stylised for dramatic effect, but it still gives us a fun perspective on what it might feel like to play under the spotlight at SW19.

And yes, this film had many Brits quietly believing in the impossible again—until the next tournament.

7 Days in Hell (2015)

Although it’s technically a mockumentary rather than a film, starring Andy Samberg and Kit Harington, it’s a super fun and completely OTT satire about professional tennis. 7 Days in Hell is a story about a fictional 7-day-long Wimbledon match that’s filled with weird twists, bad language, and some seriously unexpected and odd cameos.

It’s not necessarily one for the tennis purists, but if you fancy something a bit outrageous and funny, then this is worth a watch.

Honourable Mentions

Also worth a look are:

• Venus and Serena (2012) – A documentary with an interesting behind-the-scenes look at the sisters.
• Strokes of Genius (2018) – Based on the famous 2008 Federer vs. Nadal Wimbledon final.
• Love Means Zero (2017) – All about the controversial coach Nick Bollettieri and his difficult relationship with Andre Agassi.

Final Serve

Although football and boxing might be big sports at the cinema, tennis has definitely served up some great films in recent years. So, whether you’re interested in behind the scenes stories or just want a great watch, these tennis films certainly hit the sweet spot.