The Best Sports Thriller Movies, Ranked

Ranker Film
Updated May 15, 2024 23 items
Ranked By
747 votes
107 voters
2 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up the most gripping thrillers about sports.

Sports movies are inherently exciting, but when you add an element of danger they become white knuckle thrillers. The top sports thriller movies combine the rush of competition with suspense and intrigue. This is a list of the best sports thriller movies, including everything from Point Break to Days of Thunder to Never Back Down.

What films will you find on this list of the best sports thriller movies? Steve Carell and Channing Tatum star in Foxcatcher, a 2014 film about a millionaire who invested in an elite wrestling team, with tragic results. The plot is based on the real-life story of John E. du Pont and Olympic wrestlers Dave and Mark Schultz. Director Tony Scott explores the dangerous obsession of one baseball enthusiast in his 1996 movie The Fan. Other good sports thrillers featured on this list include Premium Rush, Two for the Money, and Heart Like a Wheel.

Which of these thriller movies about sports is your favorite? Vote the best films up to the top of the list, and get in on the conversation in the comments section.

  • Warrior
    1

    Warrior

    Joel Edgerton, Tom Hardy, Nick Nolte
    41 votes

    For Fans Of: Rocky, Creed, Invincible, The Hurricane, Million Dollar Baby
    Why Should I Watch Warrior: Journey through a powerful tale of estranged brothers reconnecting with their father and each other in the brutal world of mixed martial arts, showcasing raw emotion, intense performances, and adrenaline-pumping fight sequences that will resonate with both sports enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

    Warrior is a visceral sports drama that delves into the world of mixed martial arts. It intertwines the lives of two estranged brothers, Tommy (Tom Hardy) and Brendan (Joel Edgerton), who tread their paths in the unforgiving cage-fighting circuit. Tommy, an ex-Marine with a troubled past, seeks redemption, while Brendan, a high-school teacher fighting to keep his family afloat, seeks survival. As they independently enter Sparta, the biggest tournament in the history of the sport, their stories intersect inevitably, leading to a climax that's as intense as it is unexpected. Directed by Gavin O'Connor, Warrior earned Nick Nolte an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Paddy Conlon - the brothers' recovering alcoholic father and former coach.
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  • The Fighter
    2

    The Fighter

    Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams
    41 votes

    For Fans Of: Raging Bull, Cinderella Man, Ali, Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson, Bleed for This
    Why Should I Watch The Fighter: Unearth the true story of boxer Micky Ward's turbulent journey to the top in this gritty drama that places Christian Bale's Oscar-winning performance at the forefront and delves into themes of family bonds, redemption, and overcoming adversity amid visceral boxing scenes.

    In the gritty drama The Fighter, Micky Ward (Mark Wahlberg), a struggling boxer from the hard-knock streets of Lowell, Massachusetts, fights to break free from the shadow of his older brother, Dicky Eklund (Christian Bale). Eklund, once a promising boxer himself, now battles drug addiction and failed dreams. With fierce determination and unyielding spirit, Ward navigates family loyalty, personal ambition, and the brutal world of boxing. Amy Adams plays Charlene Fleming, Ward's steadfast girlfriend who stands by him through his tumultuous journey. This film won two Oscars for Best Supporting Actor (Bale) and Best Supporting Actress (Melissa Leo).
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  • Point Break
    3

    Point Break

    Patrick Swayze, Keanu Reeves, Gary Busey
    38 votes

    For Fans Of: The Fast and the Furious, Trainspotting, Speed, Heat, Bad Boys
    Why Should I Watch Point Break: This adrenaline-fueled actioner combines surfing, skydiving, and bank heists to create an exhilarating ride as a young FBI agent infiltrates a group of thrill-seeking criminals led by a charismatic surfer; delivering high stakes thrills and an intriguing cat-and-mouse dynamic between its leads.

    In Point Break, adrenaline-charged action meets the thrilling world of crime. Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves), a young FBI agent, infiltrates a cunning team of thrill-seeking elite athletes led by the charismatic Bodhi (Patrick Swayze). The athletes are suspected of carrying out unprecedented corporate heists under the veil of extreme sports. As Utah ventures deeper into Bodhi's lifestyle, his own loyalties are tested. This electrifying blend of action and crime, directed by Kathryn Bigelow, keeps viewers on the edge with its stunning stunts and high-stakes drama.
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  • Kickboxer
    4

    Kickboxer

    Jean-Claude Van Damme, Dennis Alexio, Dennis Chan
    32 votes

    For Fans Of: Bloodsport, Enter the Dragon, Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior, The Raid: Redemption, Ip Man
    Why Should I Watch Kickboxer: Martial arts legend Jean-Claude Van Damme stars in this classic '80s action film that showcases his signature athleticism while weaving a gripping tale of revenge as his character trains under a tough-as-nails Thai master to face off against an imposing villain in thrilling combat sequences.

    Eric Sloane (Dennis Alexio) is an American kickboxing pro, helped by his brother, Kurt (Jean-Claude Van Damme), in his quest for glory. But when the two go to Thailand to take on legendary Tong Po (Michel Qissi), the opponent viciously beats Eric and leaves him paralyzed. Swearing vengeance, Kurt tracks down master Xian Chow (Dennis Chan) and begins learning the sport himself while also getting caught up in criminal intrigue involving thuggish crime boss Freddy Li (Ka Ting Lee).
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  • The Wrestler
    5

    The Wrestler

    Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, Evan Rachel Wood
    32 votes

    For Fans Of: Black Swan (2010), Boogie Nights (1997), Requiem for a Heavyweight (1962), Darren Aronofsky's Pi (1998), Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)
    Why Should I Watch The Wrestler: Witness Mickey Rourke's career-defining role as an aging professional wrestler grappling with personal demons while trying to maintain relevancy within the unforgiving industry; examining themes like sacrifice, self-worth, and redemption amidst the harsh reality of life beyond the ring.

    Aging wrestler Randy "The Ram" Robinson (Mickey Rourke) is long past his prime but still ready and rarin' to go on the pro-wrestling circuit. After a particularly brutal beating, however, Randy hangs up his tights, pursues a serious relationship with a long-in-the-tooth stripper (Marisa Tomei), and tries to reconnect with his estranged daughter (Evan Rachel Wood). But he can't resist the lure of the ring and readies himself for a comeback.
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  • Foxcatcher
    6

    Foxcatcher

    Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo
    28 votes

    For Fans Of: Chariots of Fire, Moneyball, Capote, Zero Dark Thirty, American Hustle
    Why Should I Watch Foxcatcher: Delve into the dark, twisted true story of Olympic wrestling brothers Mark and Dave Schultz, who find themselves ensnared in a toxic relationship with eccentric millionaire John du Pont; showcasing powerhouse performances from Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, and Mark Ruffalo that underscored its dramatic tension.

    When wealthy John du Pont (Steve Carell) invites Olympic wrestler Mark Schultz (Channing Tatum) to move to his estate and help form a wrestling team for the 1988 Olympics, Mark sees a way to step out of the shadow of his charismatic brother, Dave (Mark Ruffalo). However, du Pont begins to lead Mark down a dark road, causing the athlete's self-esteem to slip. Meanwhile, du Pont becomes fixated on bringing Dave into the fold, eventually propelling all three toward an unforeseen tragedy.
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  • The Fan
    7

    The Fan

    Robert De Niro, Wesley Snipes, Ellen Barkin
    26 votes

    For Fans Of: Fatal Attraction, Misery, Cape Fear (1991), Single White Female (1992), Swimfan
    Why Should I Watch The Fan: Robert De Niro delivers a chilling performance in this psychological thriller where obsession goes too far as his character fixates on baseball superstar Wesley Snipes; navigating issues of fame, fanaticism, and the darker side of sports culture while keeping suspense alive throughout.

    A troubled salesman who peddles knives, Gil Renard (Robert De Niro) has a volatile personality, which has resulted in divorce and a strained relationship with his young son. The one thing that Renard cares passionately about is baseball, particularly the San Francisco Giants and the team's newest recruit, Bobby Rayburn (Wesley Snipes). As Renard's personal life continues to crumble, he begins obsessively tracking Rayburn, leading to kidnapping and even murder.
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  • Never Back Down
    8

    Never Back Down

    Djimon Hounsou, Sean Faris, Amber Heard
    25 votes

    For Fans Of: Karate Kid (1984), Step Up, StreetDance 3D, Drumline, Save the Last Dance
    Why Should I Watch Never Back Down: This high-octane martial arts film blends intense fight scenes with coming-of-age drama as a rebellious teenager seeks redemption through underground fighting under the guidance of a seasoned mentor; confronting themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and overcoming adversity along the way.

    Jake (Sean Faris) moves to Orlando, Fla., with his mother (Leslie Hope) and brother (Wyatt Smith). He feels like an outsider in his new school and frequently lets his temper flare out of control. But Jake wants to fit in, and he decides to go to a party with his classmate Baja (Amber Heard). There, Jake is pushed into a fight and humiliated. Another classmate (Evan Peters) sees what happened, and encourages Jake to visit martial arts trainer Jean Roqua (Djimon Hounsou).
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  • Days Of Thunder
    9

    Days Of Thunder

    Tom Cruise, Robert Duvall, Nicole Kidman
    31 votes

    For Fans Of: Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, Driven, Grand Prix (1966), Le Mans(1971), Ford v Ferrari
    Why Should I Watch Days of Thunder: Tom Cruise stars as an ambitious stock car racer navigating personal and professional challenges in this fast-paced sports drama; offering high-speed thrills on the racetrack while exploring themes such as competition, ego, and teamwork both on and off the track.

    Days of Thunder is a high-octane action drama, featuring the reckless yet talented race car driver Cole Trickle (Tom Cruise). After his entry into the high-stakes world of NASCAR, he faces fierce competition and numerous challenges. His hard-nosed crew chief Harry Hogge (Robert Duvall) provides guidance and support, while Dr. Claire Lewicki (Nicole Kidman), a brilliant neurosurgeon, offers solace and love off the track. As Cole vies for the championship, he must overcome injury, rivalry, and personal demons, all against the backdrop of the roaring engines and screeching tires on America's most iconic speedways.
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  • Southpaw
    10

    Southpaw

    Jake Gyllenhaal, Forest Whitaker, Naomie Harris
    33 votes

    For Fans Of: Any Given Sunday (2011), Warrior (2010), Undisputed (2001), Ali (2005), Cinderella Man
    Why Should I Watch Southpaw: Jake Gyllenhaal delivers an electrifying performance as a championship boxer working to rebuild his life after facing multiple tragedies; weaving together heart-pounding boxing action and intense emotion to create a raw, moving exploration of resilience and determination against all odds.

    Billy "The Great" Hope (Jake Gyllenhaal), the reigning junior middleweight boxing champion, has an impressive career, a loving wife and daughter, and a lavish lifestyle. However, when tragedy strikes, Billy hits rock bottom, losing his family, his house and his manager. He soon finds an unlikely savior in Tick Willis (Forest Whitaker), a former fighter who trains the city's toughest amateur boxers. With his future on the line, Hope fights to reclaim the trust of those he loves the most.
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  • Death Race
    11

    Death Race

    Jason Statham, Tyrese Gibson, Ian McShane
    32 votes

    For Fans Of: Mad Max: Fury Road, The Running Man, Rollerball (1975), Gamer , Escape From New York
    Why Should I Watch Death Race: This high-octane action thriller combines brutal car combat, a dystopian setting, and an adrenaline-fueled race for survival, as ex-con Jason Statham seeks freedom and revenge in a deadly no-holds-barred competition where vehicular carnage reigns supreme.

    Framed for a murder he did not commit, three-time speedway champ Jensen Ames (Jason Statham) finds himself at Terminal Island, the country's toughest prison, but he gets an unexpected chance at freedom when the warden offers a choice: Compete in the Death Race as a mythical driver called Frankenstein, or rot in a cell forever. Riding in a car equipped with flamethrowers and grenade launchers, Ames must survive a gauntlet of vicious criminals to win his freedom -- or die trying.
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  • Blue Chips
    12

    Blue Chips

    Nick Nolte, Mary McDonnell, Shaquille O'Neal
    24 votes

    For Fans Of: Coach Carter, He Got Game, Hoosiers (1986), Glory Road, White Men Can't Jump
    Why Should I Watch Blue Chips: Expose the dark side of college sports in this drama that tackles corruption, ambition, and moral dilemmas faced by a once-successful basketball coach played by Nick Nolte; offering a compelling look into the often overlooked pressures and compromises within the world of collegiate athletics.

    Pete Bell (Nick Nolte) is a college basketball coach who has to improve his team's standing -- by any means necessary. His hopes are pinned on a trio of talented players: Neon Boudeaux (Shaquille O'Neal), Butch McRae (Penny Hardaway) and Ricky Roe (Matt Nover). But in order to get them to sign to his school, Bell will have to illegally pay the players off. If he's caught, it could destroy Bell's coaching career and cast a cloud of shame over his team. Will he risk it all to win?
  • Donnybrook
    13

    Donnybrook

    Frank Grillo, Margaret Qualley, James Badge Dale
    10 votes

    For Fans Of: Fight Club, In the Blood, Hobo with a Shotgun, Drive Angry, Wild Card
    Why Should I Watch Donnybrook: Dive into the seedy underbelly of America's heartland in this gritty drama as desperate characters converge on a bare-knuckle brawl with life-changing prize money at stake – exploring themes of poverty, violence, addiction, and the lengths people will go to survive.

    Donnybrook is a 2018 American-French drama film, written and directed by Tim Sutton. A former soldier (Jamie Bell) competes against a violent drug dealer in a bare-knuckle fight, for a large cash prize.
  • The Harder They Fall
    14

    The Harder They Fall

    Humphrey Bogart, Rod Steiger, Jan Sterling
    17 votes

    For Fans Of: Bonnie and Clyde (1967), Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969), Dog Day Afternoon (1975), The Sting (1973), Casino
    Why Should I Watch The Harder They Fall: Unravel the tragic true story of heavyweight boxing champion Sonny Liston in this gripping biopic that delves into his rise to fame amid organized crime ties before an untimely fall from grace; a compelling portrait of the darker side of fame and its toll on those who achieve it.

    Broke and without work, newspaper reporter Eddie Willis (Humphrey Bogart) agrees to work for the corrupt boxing promoter Nick Benko (Rod Steiger) to help hype his new boxer, Toro Moreno (Mike Lane). While Toro is beastly in appearance, he has no actual boxing talent, and all his fights are fixed. When Toro gets a shot at the title against the brutal Buddy Brannen (Max Baer), Willis is faced with the tough decision of whether or not to tell Toro that his entire career is a sham.
  • Premium Rush
    15

    Premium Rush

    Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jamie Chung, Dania Ramirez
    24 votes

    For Fans Of: Run Lola Run, Tracers, Speed Racer Reloaded, Crank, Quicksilver
    Why Should I Watch Premium Rush: Experience breakneck bicycle chases through New York City streets with Joseph Gordon-Levitt as a daredevil courier pursued by a corrupt cop in this exhilarating action thriller that combines high-stakes danger with intense speed to create an urban rollercoaster ride.

    Premium Rush is a 2012 American action-thriller film directed by David Koepp and written by Koepp and John Kamps. The film stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Michael Shannon, Dania Ramirez and Jamie Chung. It follows a bicycle messenger chased around New York City by a corrupt police officer who wants an envelope the messenger has. It was released on August 24, 2012 by Columbia Pictures.
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  • Rush
    16

    Rush

    U;Nee, Lee Min-woo, Kim Seung-hyun
    20 votes

    For Fans Of: Senna, Le Mans '66 (Ford v Ferrari), Grand Prix (1966 film), The Right Stuff
    Why Should I Watch Rush: Director Ron Howard's exhilarating biographical drama brings to life the electrifying rivalry between Formula One drivers James Hunt and Niki Lauda during the 1976 season, capturing the intense competition, personal challenges, and sheer thrill of high-speed racing with stunning visuals and captivating performances.

    Rush is a 1999 drama film written and directed by Lee Sang-in.
  • Match Point
    17

    Match Point

    Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, Emily Mortimer
    18 votes

    For Fans Of: Closer, American Psycho, Crimes and Misdemeanors (1989), Atonement (2007), Revolutionary Road
    Why Should I Watch Match Point: Master filmmaker Woody Allen crafts an engrossing tale of lust, ambition, and guilt set against the backdrop of London's elite tennis scene; showcasing stunning performances from Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Rhys Meyers while deftly examining issues of social class mobility and morality in modern society.

    In the suspenseful drama Match Point, Chris Wilton (Jonathan Rhys Meyers), a former tennis pro turned coach, navigates the upper echelons of London society. He's drawn into a dangerous love triangle with his wealthy friend Tom Hewett's (Matthew Goode) sister Chloe (Emily Mortimer) and his fiancé Nola Rice (Scarlett Johansson). As events spiral out of control, Chris is forced to make some life-altering decisions. Directed by Woody Allen, this film expertly weaves themes of luck, ambition, and morality into its narrative. Garnering an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay, Match Point offers viewers a gripping tale of desire and deceit.
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  • Two For The Money
    18

    Two For The Money

    Al Pacino, Matthew McConaughey, Rene Russo
    19 votes

    For Fans Of: The Color of Money (1994), Quiz show (2013), Runner Runner (1998), Rounders (1992 ), Glengarry Glen Ross
    Why Should I Watch Two for the Money: Dive into the high-stakes world of sports gambling as Al Pacino and Matthew McConaughey team up in this sharp-edged drama that examines ambition, greed, loyalty, and manipulation within a volatile industry where fortunes can be won or lost in an instant.

    A former college athlete (Matthew McConaughey) joins forces with a sports consultant (Al Pacino) to handicap football games for high-rolling gamblers.
  • Airborne
    19

    Airborne

    Shane McDermott, Seth Green, Brittney Powell
    16 votes

    For Fans Of: Brink! (1998), Smart House (1999), Johnny Tsunami (2000), The Other Me (2001), Motocrossed
    Why Should I Watch Airborne: Relive '90s nostalgia with this feel-good comedy about a California surfer-turned-Cincinnati rollerblader who must navigate new friendships, rivalries, and an epic downhill race to prove himself; delivering laughs, heart, and fast-paced rollerblading action that'll make you want to break out your own blades.

    When his parents go to Australia for six months to work on a zoology project, young Mitchell (Shane McDermott) is sent to live with his Aunt Irene (Edie McClurg) and Uncle Louie (Patrick Thomas O'Brien) in Cincinnati. Initially dismayed by the cold climate, Mitchell's unhappiness increases when he's taunted by the high school's popular kids. As he strikes up a relationship with Nikki (Brittney Powell), Mitchell begins to win over his bullies by using his Rollerblading skills in street hockey games.
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  • Heart Like A Wheel
    20

    Heart Like A Wheel

    Bonnie Bedelia, Beau Bridges, Leo Rossi
    15 votes

    For Fans Of: Coal Miner's Daughter, The Fabulous Baker Boys (1989), Bright Lights, Big City (1988), Tender Mercies (1983), Silkwood
    Why Should I Watch Heart Like a Wheel: Witness the inspiring true story of drag racing pioneer Shirley Muldowney in this compelling biopic that chronicles her trailblazing career amidst gender discrimination, personal turmoil, and fierce competition; offering gripping racing sequences alongside a powerful exploration of determination and resilience against all odds.

    During the 1950s, housewife Shirley Muldowney (Bonnie Bedelia) talks her mechanic husband, Jack (Leo Rossi), into letting her street race his sports car. She quickly discovers she has a true talent and begins pursuing a career as a professional driver. At first, Shirley is met with skepticism among the racing community and is denied the license necessary to drive professionally. But when she's finally given the chance to prove herself, she shows that racing isn't always a man's game.
  • Night And The City
    21

    Night And The City

    Robert De Niro, Jessica Lange, Cliff Gorman
    16 votes

    For Fans Of: Gilda (1946), Double Indemnity, Sunset Boulevard, Chinatown, Sweet Smell of Success
    Why Should I Watch Night and the City: Immerse yourself in the atmospheric noir classic that plunges into London's seedy underworld of wrestling as a small-time hustler portrayed by Richard Widmark, attempts to make his mark; this gripping tale weaves together themes of ambition, desperation, and corruption in a city after dark.

    Harry Fabian (Robert De Niro) is a crooked lawyer running cons all over New York City. After he fails at a boxing scam, he finds himself in dire financial straits and takes a loan from a merciless moneylender named Mr. Peck (Eli Wallach). When he needs help paying Peck back, Harry turns to Helen (Jessica Lange), a married waitress he is sleeping with. He begins to plot one last con -- that double-crosses many of his allies. With no friends left around town, Harry's luck goes from bad to worse.
  • The Recruiter
    22

    The Recruiter

    Viktor Sukhorukov, Olga Landina, Eduard Tabishev
    15 votes

    For Fans Of: The Lives of Others (2014), Inherent Vice (2006), The Good Shepherd (2012), Argo (2015), Bridge Of Spies
    Why Should I Watch The Recruiter: Explore the cutthroat world of college basketball recruiting through the eyes of a talented young player caught between loyalty and ambition in this riveting drama that delves into issues such as ethics, temptation, and betrayal within an often undiscussed aspect of sports culture.

    Shiza a.k.a. Schizo is a 2004 Russian language film directed by Gulshat Omarova. The film was in the official selection from Kazakhstan for the 77th Academy Awards. It was also screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival.
  • Fast Track: No Limits
    23

    Fast Track: No Limits

    Erin Cahill, Maurice Roeves, Andrew Walker
    16 votes

    For Fans Of: Need for Speed , Gone in 60 Seconds (2000), Redline (2007 film), Speed Racer, Turbocharged Prelude
    Why Should I Watch Fast Track: No Limits: Get ready for a high-octane ride through the underground racing scene in this action-packed thriller where adrenaline-fueled drivers push their limits to achieve fame and fortune while evading a determined cop hot on their tail; offering pulse-pounding car chases, narrow escapes, and high-stakes thrills throughout.

    Fast Track: No Limits is a 2008 independent film directed by Axel Sand. The film was written and produced by Lee Goldberg who is known for his work on Diagnosis: Murder and Monk, and was as a co-production between Action Concept and the German television network ProSiebenSat1. Action Concept is the company that makes the long running German TV series, Alarm for Cobra 11. The film stars Erin Cahill and Canadian actor Andrew Walker. The film was shot in English, with American, British, Canadian, French, and German actors, on location in Berlin, Germany. Cars for the film were supplied by BMW, Audi, and Subaru. It aired first on ProSiebenSat1 in February 2008, and was released theatrically in China by Beijing Time Entertainment. The film has been broadcast on television and released on DVD in dozens of countries, and it was released on DVD in the United States by Maverick Entertainment Group.