Sports documentaries offer a unique glimpse into the world of athletes, highlighting not only their triumphs but the challenges, losses, and relentless dedication that define their journeys. Netflix, with its ever-growing catalog of documentaries, has capitalized on this storytelling by delivering in-depth, behind-the-scenes shows that go far beyond the traditional talking head format. For fans, this is an opportunity to witness the highs and lows that make sports more than just a game.

Whether it's the high-stakes tension of tennis in Break Point, the resilience of Receiver and Quarterback, or the inspiring comebacks featured in Last Chance U, these documentaries offer unparalleled access to moments that were once off-limits to viewers. With a focus on a diverse range of sports—from Formula 1 to gymnastics—these films not only celebrate athleticism but also explore the deeper emotional connections athletes have to their sport.

10 The Last Dance

The Documentary Was Released In 2020

The Last Dance earns its top spot among Netflix sports documentaries with a 97% Rotten Tomatoes rating and 91 on Metacritic. The series offers an in-depth look at Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls’ iconic 1997-98 season, blending archival footage with candid interviews. Critics, including CNN and The New York Times, praised its immersive storytelling, making it more than just a sports documentary—it’s a cultural phenomenon.

The combination of its high-stakes narrative and stunning basketball footage secures its place as one of the best sports documentaries on Netflix.

Director Jason Hehir's masterful editing captures Jordan's magnetism and intensity, while also exploring the drama surrounding the Bulls' dynasty. Despite some concerns over Jordan’s involvement in the production, Hehir maintains editorial control, delivering a balanced and engrossing portrayal. The combination of its high-stakes narrative and stunning basketball footage secures its place as one of the best sports documentaries on Netflix.

9 Formula 1: Drive To Survive

The Documentary Was Released In 2019

Formula 1: Drive to Survive secures its spot as one of Netflix’s best sports documentaries by transforming Formula 1 into a global phenomenon. With gripping episodes like "Man on Fire," which holds a near-perfect IMDb rating of 9.4/10, viewers witness the dramatic 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix crash where Romain Grosjean miraculously survives a fiery wreck, making this documentary an adrenaline-pumping watch.

The show’s emotional depth shines through episodes like "Raging Bulls" and "The Comeback Kid," which explore the fierce rivalries, driver demotions, and the human element of racing. The combination of high-octane action and personal drama gives Drive to Survive an edge, making it a must-watch for both sports fans and newcomers alike.

8 Senna

The Documentary Was Released In 2024

Senna earns its place among the top sports documentaries with a 93% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film captures the life and legacy of legendary Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna through archival footage, bringing his thrilling career and emotional journey to life.

Praised for its heart-pounding intensity and deep emotional impact, it appeals even to those unfamiliar with racing, as it focuses on Senna's ion, skill, and tragic fate.

Critics like The Guardian and Empire hailed Senna for its live-action drama approach, using real footage to immerse viewers in Senna’s world. With compelling storytelling and breathtaking race scenes, the documentary offers more than just Formula 1 history—it delivers a riveting human story.

7 Last Chance U

The Documentary Was Released In 2016

Last Chance U ranks among Netflix's best sports documentaries, holding an impressive IMDb rating of 8.4 and a Metacritic score of 79. The series is celebrated for its authentic portrayal of junior college football players striving for redemption, as it chronicles their journeys filled with academic hurdles, personal hardships, and athletic ambitions. SB Nation praised it as a "carefully crafted drama," highlighting the strong character development that draws viewers into the lives of these athletes. The series captures the essence of second chances, making it resonate deeply with audiences who appreciate authentic storytelling.

Last Chance U not only entertains but also inspires viewers to empathize with the athletes' determination to overcome obstacles, reinforcing its status as a standout documentary in sports media.

What sets the show apart is its blend of intense football action with the saddening realities of life faced by these young athletes in Last Chance U. The narrative extends beyond the field, showcasing their struggles with family, self-doubt, and societal expectations. This emotional depth enriches the viewing experience, transforming the series into a compelling exploration of resilience. By focusing on the underdog narrative, Last Chance U not only entertains but also inspires viewers to empathize with the athletes' determination to overcome obstacles, reinforcing its status as a standout documentary in sports media.

6 Last Chance U: Basketball

The Documentary Was Released In 2021

Last Chance U: Basketball also earns high marks with an IMDb score of 8.3 and a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, underscoring its critical acclaim. The series delves into the lives of junior college basketball players facing significant challenges, going beyond the game to reveal the personal struggles that shape their identities. The emotional depth and intense focus on these underdogs resonate with audiences, making it a standout in the sports documentary genre. Critics have lauded its fresh approach to storytelling, merging gripping sports action with heartfelt narratives, which distinguishes it from typical sports documentaries.

The direction and pacing of Last Chance U: Basketball contribute significantly to its success, featuring a powerful soundtrack that intertwines hip-hop culture with the high-stakes environment of junior college basketball. The ion displayed by coaches and the resilience exhibited by players are palpable throughout the series, drawing viewers into their world. This combination of elements makes it accessible not just to sports fans but also to a broader audience. By highlighting the athletes' journeys toward personal growth and success, the series solidifies its place among the best sports documentaries, capturing the essence of hope and determination in the face of adversity.

5 Captains of the World

The Documentary Was Released In 2023

Captains of the World secures a spot on the list with an IMDb score of 8.3/10 and a strong global impact, ranking as Netflix’s 4th most-watched show in its first week with 348 million hours viewed. Its compelling storytelling and focus on the leadership journeys of football captains offer an inspiring look at what it takes to lead on and off the pitch.

The series resonates deeply with viewers, blending sports action with personal growth, making it a must-watch for fans of leadership and sports documentaries alike.

With over 60 countries placing it in Netflix's Top 10, the series resonates deeply with viewers, blending sports action with personal growth, making it a must-watch for fans of leadership and sports documentaries alike.

4 Tour de : Unchained 8.2

The Documentary Was Released In 2023

Tour de : Unchained claims its place on the list with an impressive IMDb rating of 8.2 and a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. Released in June 2023, the series gained significant traction, amassing 36.1 million viewing hours and ranking in the top 10 in 15 countries, highlighting its widespread appeal.

Offering an engaging behind-the-scenes look at the prestigious cycling event, Unchained outperformed other sports documentaries, garnering a positive critical reception. As it prepares for its second season, the series shows strong momentum and potential for continued growth in viewership, reflecting the growing interest in cycling and sports documentaries on Netflix.

3 Beckham

The Documentary Was Released In 2023

Beckham secures its spot in the rankings with an IMDb rating of 8.1 and an 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Released on October 4, 2023, the series made a significant impact, being watched for an impressive 59 million hours within its first week. The documentary offers an intimate look at the life and career of David Beckham, showcasing his rise to fame and the challenges he faced. Its acclaim is underscored by five Primetime Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series, solidifying its status as a standout production in sports documentaries.

2 The Dawn Wall 8.1

The Documentary Was Released In 2017

The Dawn Wall holds a remarkable 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 18 critic reviews, and an average rating of 8.7/10. It received a score of 81 out of 100 on Metacritic, indicating "universal acclaim." The documentary has been recognized with several awards, including the Audience Award at the SXSW Film Festival and the Best Mountaineering Film at the Trento Film Festival. These accolades reflect its quality and impact in the documentary genre.

The film chronicles climbers Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson as they attempt to scale the Dawn Wall of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. With an IMDb rating of 8.1 and nominations for notable awards, including the Critics' Choice Documentary Awards, it is praised for its captivating portrayal of perseverance in the face of adversity. Its compelling narrative and stunning visuals contribute to its ranking among the best sports documentaries available.

1 Athlete A

The Documentary Was Released In 2020

Athlete A is highly regarded, holding a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 60 critic reviews, with an average rating of 8.4/10. The site's consensus emphasizes its unflinching examination of systemic abuses in gymnastics. On Metacritic, it has a weighted average score of 85 out of 100, indicating "universal acclaim." The documentary received the Critics' Choice Documentary Award for Best Sports Documentary and was nominated for Best Documentary Feature and Best Director, reflecting its significance in both the sports and documentary genres.

The film documents the investigative work of reporters from The Indianapolis Star who uncovered numerous sexual assault allegations against USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar. It centers on gymnast Maggie Nichols, referred to as "Athlete A" to protect her identity, highlighting her pivotal role in bringing these issues to light. The documentary’s thorough portrayal of the challenges faced by survivors and the systemic failures within the sport has contributed to its status as one of the best sports documentaries, deserving recognition for its impact on raising awareness and inspiring change within athletic organizations.