The Harsh Reality of Professional Tennis: ‘Every Week You’re a Loser’

Netflix’s latest documentary, Break Point, has stirred serious attention since its release this month, though some prominent tennis figures like Nick Kyrgios and former world No. 1 Andy Murray have yet to engage with it.

The series, crafted by the same team behind the acclaimed attention since its release this month, though some prominent tennis figures like Nick Kyrgios and former world No. 1 Andy Murray have yet to engage witDrive to Survive for Formula 1, aims to spotlight the rising stars of tennis as the sport transitions into a new era, post-Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and at the time, Roger Federer and Serena Williams.

The documentary, following 10 ATP and WTA players throughout their season, attempts to capture the drama and allure of tennis similar to how Drive to Survive energized F1. However, it falls short of replicating the soap opera-like appeal of its predecessor, partially due to tennis’s less inherently dramatic nature compared to F1.

A noteworthy subplot has emerged on social media, dubbed the ‘Break Point curse,’ as six of the players featured in the initial episodes exited the Australian Open before the first weekend, with three more withdrawing due to injury.

Only Felix Auger-Aliassime remains in the singles draw. Despite the buzz, Auger-Aliassime dismissed the curse, stating, “I think it’s funny. I don’t believe it’s connected. Maybe some players feel it’s related, but I don’t think so.”

The show also appears to target a less familiar audience by explaining basic tennis concepts. Featured players, including Maria Sakkari, Taylor Fritz, Paula Badosa, Auger-Aliassime, and Casper Ruud, are promising but yet to reach global superstardom, despite having briefly been in the world’s top 10. Matteo Berrettini and Ons Jabeur, who have recently achieved grand slam finals, might be more recognized now than during filming.

Kyrgios, highlighted in the series as a highly talented but unfulfilled player, offers a raw portrayal of his struggles with fame, mental health, and personal issues.

He shares how the fame and expectations following his early success at Wimbledon were overwhelming, leading to issues with alcohol and erratic behavior. His manager, Daniel Horsfall, recounts tracking Kyrgios’s whereabouts during turbulent times.

The documentary reveals the harsh realities of tennis, emphasizing the isolation and mental toll on players. Taylor Fritz describes the relentless pressure, noting, “Every week you’re a loser,” highlighting the dominance of stars like Nadal and Djokovic.

Paula Badosa candidly discusses the impact of immense expectations on her mental health, and Sakkari talks about the psychological burden of a near-miss at the French Open, even contemplating retirement.

A poignant segment features Ons Jabeur and her husband, highlighting personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of tennis success. The show underscores the solitary nature of the sport and the monotonous traveling lifestyle that isolates players from the vibrant cities they visit.

However, Break Point doesn’t glamorize the tennis lifestyle but rather prompts reflection on the intense mental and emotional challenges faced by professional players. It reveals a world that is both grueling and introspective, painting a picture of a sport that demands not only physical prowess but also immense mental resilience.