Five Not-to-Miss Sports Documentaries of the 2024 Season
2024 was a standout year for sports and storytelling, packed with significant international tournaments like the Olympics, Euro 2024, Africa Cup of Nations, and ICC World T20, accompanied by record-breaking performances, emotional goodbyes, and stories that transcended the realm of sports. From highlighting top athletes to chronicling unforgettable events, these are the top five must-watch sports documentaries of 2024 that will transport you into the heart of the sports world and keep you glued to your screen.
Unforgettable Victory: Argentina
The 2022 FIFA Men’s World Cup was nothing short of historical. While many documentaries focus on the tournament's events in Qatar, COPA 90's Eli Mengem and his team took a different route, journeying all the way to Argentina to grasp what a World Cup victory truly means to the nation.
Through the lens of political perspectives, cultural traditions, and the raw emotions of millions, this documentary sheds light on Argentinian football, the immense weight of expectations on the team, and the joy of victory. Although the tournament results are well-known, Unforgettable Victory: Argentina goes beyond the surface to emphasize the unmatched passion and connection between football and the Argentine people.
The cinematography, interviews, and stories are all artfully arranged in a well-paced four-episode thriller that you won't feel guilty watching non-stop.
Watch it on: COPA90's YouTube Channel
The Miraculous Transformation: Giannis Antetokounmpo
In the realm of sports, it's rare to find a single athlete's story covered across multiple platforms, yet The Miraculous Transformation: Giannis Antetokounmpo achieves just that, diving deep into the life of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
From his humble beginnings as the son of Nigerian immigrants in Greece to his rise as an NBA superstar, this documentary explores more than his remarkable resilience; it delves into his personal growth and the integral role his family played in his journey. His natural humility is captivating, drawing you deeper into his story and the central role his family continues to play.
Suitable for basketball fans and non-basketball fans alike, this documentary is compelling and accessible. No prior knowledge of the sport is required to appreciate Giannis's remarkable journey to success, making it an inspiring watch for a wide audience. The documentary truly delves into Giannis's values, where they stem from, his commitment to family, and his unwavering loyalty to his team and his career.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime
The Unyielding Spirit: Australia's Cricket Team (Season 3)
Back for its third season, The Unyielding Spirit: Australia's Cricket Team spans three episodes, covering Australia as they face India, who had won four consecutive series victories against Australia, in the 2023 ICC World Test Championship final and the challenges they faced in confronting a revitalized England and their aggressive "Bazball" style of play.
What sets this documentary apart is its clear narrative structure while maintaining an entertaining tone, thanks to the emotions and interviews. Earlier seasons portrayed them as young men who merely sought to enjoy playing cricket; however, the latest season reveals their grit, determination, and the lengths they would go to secure victory.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime
Raw Honesty: Simone Biles' Journey
Dubbed the greatest of all time due to her dominance in gymnastics, Raw Honesty: Simone Biles' Journey offers a revealingly candid, in-depth look at the life and journey of the sport's most decorated athlete.
This documentary is personal. Biles speaks about the sacrifices as well as the pressure that comes with consistent success. Biles opens up about her mental health, her withdrawal from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and her struggle to comprehend her nagging doubts.
The four-part docuseries, directed by Katie Walsh, also delves into injuries, how her rigorous training routine affects her body, her preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics, and how she had to elevate her performance to contend against her formidable opponent, Rebeca Andrade. The series intertwines the sport's present with its past, providing a more comprehensive view of gymnastics.
Watch it on: Netflix
The Elusive Dream: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
The Elusive Dream: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders shares an intriguing perspective on the grueling, intense world of becoming a cheerleader for any NFL team—but particularly the Dallas Cowboys—the most valuable franchise in the league.
The documentary explores the often elusive selection criteria that boil down to possessing an indefinable "it" factor, and the women's unwavering commitment to achieving that goal. It reveals the complexities that normally go unnoticed, such as the grueling audition process, the burden of performing under the spotlight, and the constant scrutiny over body image and politics.
The narrative is impossible to ignore. In essence, these are women who have a strong passion for their craft and are devoted to pursuing it, but their stories are far from simple.
Watch it on: Netflix
In the business of sports documentaries, 2024 offered viewers an abundance of compelling stories, such as the critically acclaimed 'Unforgettable Victory: Argentina' that delves into the historical FIFA Men’s World Cup victory and its impact on Argentinian football culture, available on COPA90's YouTube Channel. Moreover, 'The Miraculous Transformation: Giannis Antetokounmpo', a documentary exploring the journey of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, garnered praise for its deep dive into his humble beginnings, personal growth, and family's integral role in his success, which can be watched on Amazon Prime.
