Top 15 Must-See Tennis Movies Of All Time

15. Fletch (1985)

In this comedy classic, Chevy Chase plays the title character, Irwin M. Fletcher, a wisecracking investigative reporter. While not strictly a tennis movie, one memorable scene stands out where Fletch competes in a tennis match, showing off his athletic side in an otherwise zany film. Although the primary focus of Fletch is on investigative journalism, the quirky moments tied to sports, including tennis, add a humorous twist to the narrative. The film’s witty dialogue and fast-paced storyline keep the audience engaged, and Chase’s sharp comedic timing makes it a standout in '80s cinema. This movie is perfect for tennis lovers looking for a lighthearted watch that also includes a few sports moments. Fans of the genre will also recognize familiar faces like Tim Matheson, making for a truly enjoyable viewing experience. Fletch became a cult classic, thanks in part to its blend of mystery, comedy, and unexpected sports moments. | © Universal Pictures

14. The Prince of Tennis (2006)

Based on the popular Japanese manga and anime series, The Prince of Tennis is a live-action film that follows the journey of Ryoma Echizen, a tennis prodigy returning to Japan after a successful career in the U.S. He joins his school’s tennis team, where he faces off against various talented opponents while striving to prove himself. The film captures the intensity and passion of competitive tennis, with action-packed match sequences and dramatic rivalries that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With performances by actors such as Takuya Kawaguchi as Ryoma, The Prince of Tennis stands as a faithful adaptation of the source material, offering both thrilling sports action and character development. The film is a treat for both longtime fans of the anime and newcomers to the story, showcasing not only the physical demands of tennis but also the inner drive and determination needed to succeed. For those seeking a tennis movie that blends sports with a compelling narrative, this live-action version offers an exciting, must-watch experience. | © Toei Company

13. Citizen Ashe (2021)

This powerful documentary chronicles the life of tennis legend Arthur Ashe, shedding light on his activism and the obstacles he overcame as an African-American athlete in the racially segregated world of tennis. Beyond his remarkable achievements on the court, Ashe’s life story includes his profound impact on social justice, particularly during the civil rights movement. His courage in using his platform to address issues like apartheid and racism remains an inspiring part of his legacy. Citizen Ashe captures the complexities of his character and his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. With interviews from those who knew him, including tennis greats like Billie Jean King and John McEnroe, the documentary presents a nuanced portrait of a man who changed tennis and society. For tennis fans and history enthusiasts alike, this documentary offers an essential look at the man behind the legend. | © HBO

12. Wimbledon (2004)

A romantic comedy set against the backdrop of the prestigious tennis tournament, Wimbledon tells the story of Peter Colt, a washed-up British tennis player who is given a final chance to compete at Wimbledon. His unexpected romance with rising star Lizzie Bradbury, played by Kirsten Dunst, adds a layer of drama and emotion to the sport, making for a compelling and entertaining film. As Colt, played by Paul Bettany, finds himself falling in love, his career unexpectedly turns around, leading to one of the most heartwarming underdog stories in tennis movie history. The film not only highlights the excitement of the sport but also shows the personal sacrifices athletes make to pursue their dreams. Wimbledon’s stunning visuals, coupled with an energetic soundtrack, add to the film’s charm. Dunst’s portrayal of a young, ambitious tennis player complements Bettany’s character, making it a great watch for fans of both romance and sports. | © Universal Pictures

11. Borg vs. McEnroe (2017)

The fierce rivalry between tennis legends Björn Borg and John McEnroe is brought to life in Borg vs. McEnroe, a film that dives deep into the intense personalities of two of tennis’ most iconic players. The movie focuses on their epic 1980 Wimbledon final, one of the most memorable matches in tennis history, and explores the contrasting temperaments of the two athletes. Borg, portrayed by Sverrir Gudnason, is depicted as cool, calculating, and the epitome of mental toughness, while McEnroe, played by Shia LaBeouf, is fiery, unpredictable, and often at odds with authority. The film is an exploration of the psychological battles behind their rivalry, and it brings out the pressures of being at the top of the sport. LaBeouf’s performance is raw and emotional, capturing McEnroe's often misunderstood persona, while Gudnason perfectly channels Borg's stoic presence. Borg vs. McEnroe is not just about the match – it’s a compelling look at the cost of greatness. | © STXfilms

10. 7 Days in Hell (2015)

This hilarious mockumentary brings a fictionalized look at a ridiculous, yet oddly entertaining, tennis match between two completely over-the-top players. Featuring a star-studded cast, including Andy Samberg and Kit Harington, 7 Days in Hell tells the absurd story of a grueling, week-long tennis match between two unlikely rivals – one a quirky, eccentric champion (played by Samberg), and the other a British, aristocratic player (Harington) whose behavior often borders on the absurd. The humor is sharp, filled with outrageous moments and absurd commentary, and the portrayal of the sport is more comedic than realistic. Through its satirical lens, 7 Days in Hell delivers a fun, lighthearted experience for tennis fans who appreciate a good laugh. The film parodies the often serious world of professional sports and celebrity culture, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for a tennis film with a comical twist. | © HBO

9. The Squid and the Whale (2005)

While not explicitly focused on tennis, The Squid and the Whale includes a memorable subplot revolving around tennis that highlights the complexity of family dynamics and the emotional turmoil of adolescence. Directed by Noah Baumbach, the film tells the story of two boys navigating their parents’ bitter divorce, with tennis serving as one of the ways the children express their struggles. Jesse Eisenberg, playing the older son, uses his tennis matches as an outlet for his frustrations and attempts to cope with his family’s unraveling. The tennis scenes, though not the central focus, serve as a poignant metaphor for the competitive and fractured nature of family relationships. This drama is an introspective and deeply human exploration of family life, and it shows how even sports, like tennis, can mirror the emotional battles we face in our personal lives. | © Sony Pictures Classics

8. King Richard (2021)

King Richard is an inspiring biographical drama that focuses on the life of Richard Williams, the father and coach of Venus and Serena Williams, two of tennis’s greatest players. Played by Will Smith, Richard Williams is portrayed as a determined, visionary father who pushed his daughters to greatness, despite facing numerous challenges and skepticism from the professional tennis world. The film highlights not only his unconventional training methods but also the unwavering belief he had in his daughters' abilities, long before they became global tennis icons. Through its heartfelt storytelling, King Richard sheds light on the sacrifices, resilience, and family bond that shaped the careers of Venus and Serena. Smith’s performance was widely praised, earning him an Academy Award for Best Actor. This uplifting movie resonates with audiences not just for its tennis storyline but for its broader themes of perseverance, family, and believing in the impossible. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

7. Blow-Up (1966)

In Michelangelo Antonioni’s enigmatic classic Blow-Up, the film’s central story revolves around a London fashion photographer who inadvertently captures a mysterious moment involving a couple in a park, which leads him down a path of intrigue and uncertainty. While tennis is not the main theme, the movie includes a memorable scene set at a tennis match that plays a crucial role in the film's exploration of perception and reality. The film’s unique take on modern life, capturing the 1960s zeitgeist, also uses the tennis match to symbolize the clash between the art of observation and the distortion of truth. Blow-Up is a film full of ambiguity and visual metaphor, where even the simplest scenes, like the tennis match, are laden with deeper meaning. Though not a traditional tennis movie, its inclusion of the sport adds to the overall theme of detachment and voyeurism that permeates Antonioni’s work. | © Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)

6. Battle of the Sexes (2017)

This film dramatizes the historic 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, which became a defining moment in the fight for gender equality in sports. Emma Stone portrays the fiercely determined Billie Jean King, while Steve Carell takes on the role of Bobby Riggs, a former champion who challenged King to a televised match, claiming that men were superior to women in tennis. Battle of the Sexes doesn’t just focus on the game itself; it also explores the personal lives of the players, the social pressures they faced, and the larger cultural context of the time. King’s courage and perseverance in the face of both professional and personal challenges shine through in Stone’s powerful performance, while Carell brings a comedic yet complex portrayal of Riggs. This film is both a tribute to the power of sport and a poignant reminder of the barriers women had to overcome in the world of athletics. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of sports and social change. | © 20th Century Fox

5. Nasty (2024)

Nasty is an upcoming tennis drama that has already generated a great deal of buzz due to its unique premise and powerful performances. The film follows the gripping story of a rising tennis star who must navigate the cutthroat world of professional tennis, where the line between friendship and rivalry is often blurred. With intense training sequences and high-stakes matches, the movie promises to capture the emotional toll and personal sacrifices athletes make in pursuit of greatness. The lead role is played by an up-and-coming actor, whose raw performance has already received attention in pre-release reviews. Nasty explores themes of competition, ambition, and the darker side of professional sports, diving deep into the psyche of its characters. With stunning cinematography and gripping storytelling, the film is poised to become a fan favorite for those who appreciate both the drama and the excitement of tennis. | © Universal Pictures

4. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

Wes Anderson's The Royal Tenenbaums is a quirky, visually striking film about a dysfunctional family of former child prodigies, one of whom is a tennis champion. Rich with humor, eccentric characters, and heartfelt moments, the film features Gene Hackman as Royal Tenenbaum, the estranged patriarch who attempts to reconnect with his gifted children, including Chas, played by Ben Stiller, a former tennis star. Chas’s childhood tennis fame and his eventual struggles with loss and identity are an integral part of the film's exploration of family dynamics and personal growth. Anderson’s signature style is on full display, with symmetrical shots and a pastel color palette that adds to the film's offbeat charm. The inclusion of tennis, though not the central theme, beautifully complements the movie’s broader narrative on talent, failure, and the passage of time. The Royal Tenenbaums is a deeply human story about coming to terms with one’s past, with tennis serving as a poignant metaphor for the character's peak and decline. | © Touchstone Pictures

3. Strangers on a Train (1951)

In Alfred Hitchcock’s Strangers on a Train, the world of tennis plays a pivotal role in the thrilling suspense of the plot. The film begins with a chance encounter between two men – Guy Haines, a tennis player, and Bruno Antony, a disturbed individual – who meet on a train and discuss swapping murders to resolve their respective problems. Bruno proposes a “crisscross” murder plan, and when Guy’s wife is killed in a mysterious manner, he becomes entangled in a web of manipulation and deceit. The film’s tennis subplot adds an air of sophistication and tension to the story, as Guy’s status as a tennis star creates an interesting contrast with the darker, more sinister elements of the narrative. Hitchcock’s suspenseful direction, combined with the tennis angle, makes this classic thriller one of the most innovative films in the genre. Strangers on a Train remains a masterpiece, blending the tension of psychological manipulation with the glitzy world of sports. | © Warner Bros.

2. Challengers (2024)

Directed by Luca Guadagnino, Challengers is a provocative romantic drama that delves into the complexities of love, rivalry, and ambition within the world of professional tennis. Zendaya stars as Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy turned coach, who orchestrates a high-stakes match between her husband, Art (Mike Faist), and his former best friend, Patrick (Josh O'Connor). The film explores the emotional and psychological tensions that arise as past relationships resurface and personal stakes escalate. Critics have praised the film for its intense performances and its exploration of complex interpersonal dynamics. Challengers offers a gripping narrative that resonates with audiences interested in the intersection of sports and human emotion. | © Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

1. Match Point (2005)

Woody Allen’s Match Point is a gripping psychological thriller that blends elements of suspense with tennis, offering a look at the darker side of desire, ambition, and moral choices. Set against the backdrop of London’s elite social circles, the film follows Chris Wilton, a former tennis pro played by Jonathan Rhys Meyers, as he becomes entangled in an affair that leads to devastating consequences. The film’s tennis sequences are pivotal to the narrative, symbolizing the balance between luck and skill – an apt metaphor for Chris’s choices and the risks he takes. Scarlett Johansson also delivers a standout performance, adding a layer of intrigue to the film’s tense love triangle. The match point, both literal and metaphorical, plays a significant role in the film’s exploration of fate and the consequences of decisions. Match Point is a haunting portrayal of the pursuit of success, making it a standout in the world of tennis-themed films. | © DreamWorks Pictures