With the Super Bowl around the corner and Valentine's Day right on its heels, a sporty rom-com would make for the perfect marriage of the two events.
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Romantic comedies and sports are two genres that may seem worlds apart, yet when they converge, the result is often a heartwarming and engaging film that appeals to a broad audience. This list of 14 romantic comedies is perfect for sports fans who love a blend of athletic action, romantic sparks, and comedic moments.
Each film on this list uniquely combines the thrill of sports with the emotional depth of romantic relationships, offering something for everyone. From the underdog stories to tales of personal triumph, these films showcase how love and sports can intertwine in the most unexpected ways.
Whether you're a hardcore sports enthusiast or just looking for a feel-good movie, these titles are sure to entertain and inspire. The list includes classic and contemporary films, each with its own charm and appeal. The actors and actresses in these films bring their characters to life with memorable performances that resonate with audiences. So, grab your popcorn and prepare to dive into a world where love scores and sports inspire.
Scroll through for 14 sports rom-com movies sports fans are sure to love.
'Summer Catch' (2001)
Warner Bros. Pictures
Stars: Freddie Prinze Jr., Jessica Biel, Matthew Lillard
"Summer Catch" is a romantic sports comedy that captures the essence of baseball and young love. The film centers around Ryan Dunne (Freddie Prinze Jr.), a talented local baseball player who gets the chance of a lifetime to play in the prestigious Cape Cod Baseball League. It's here that he meets Tenley Parrish (Jessica Biel), the daughter of a wealthy couple vacationing in Cape Cod. Despite their different social backgrounds, the chemistry between Ryan and Tenley is undeniable. Matthew Lillard plays Ryan's best friend, offering comic relief and support. Critics despised "Summer Catch" — the film has a paltry 8% critical rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a middling 48% from audiences — but if you take it as a fun, unserious Hallmark-y flick and nothing more, "Summer Catch" is worth a peek.
Rent it on Google Play
'Tin Cup' (1996)
Warner Bros. Pictures
Stars: Kevin Costner, Rene Russo, Don Johnson
"Tin Cup" is a delightful blend of golf and romance starring Kevin Costner as Roy McAvoy, a talented but underachieving golfer. Roy owns a driving range in West Texas, where he meets Dr. Molly Griswold (Rene Russo), a psychologist and the girlfriend of his rival, David Simms (Don Johnson). Roy, known for his reckless and unconventional approach to golf, decides to qualify for the U.S. Open to win Molly's heart. Costner's performance as the charming yet flawed Roy is noteworthy, and the chemistry between him and Russo is captivating.
Rent it on YouTube
'Wimbledon' (2004)
Universal Pictures
Stars: Kirsten Dunst, Paul Bettany, Jon Favreau
"Wimbledon" serves up a charming blend of tennis action and romantic drama. The film follows the story of Peter Colt (Paul Bettany), a fading British tennis star who's given a wild card to play at Wimbledon, possibly for the last time. During the tournament, he meets Lizzie Bradbury (Kirsten Dunst), an up-and-coming American tennis player. Their mutual attraction leads to a romantic affair that revitalizes Peter's game. Jon Favreau plays Peter's agent, adding a humorous touch to the storyline.
Rent it on YouTube
'Just Wright' (2010)
Searchlight
Stars: Queen Latifah, Common, Paula Patton
"Just Wright" is a basketball-themed rom-com that beautifully blends the sport with a tale of unexpected love. The film stars Queen Latifah as Leslie Wright, a physical therapist who gets the job of a lifetime working with NBA All-Star Scott McKnight (Common). Initially, Leslie's heart is set on a romantic relationship, but Scott only has eyes for her gorgeous friend Morgan (Paula Patton). However, as Leslie helps Scott recover from a career-threatening injury, they grow closer, and sparks begin to fly.
Stream it on Max
'Leatherheads' (2008)
Stars: George Clooney, Renée Zellweger, John Krasinski
"Leatherheads" takes us back to the origins of professional American football, with a romantic twist. Directed by and starring George Clooney as Dodge Connolly, a charming and aging football hero, the film is set in the 1920s. Clooney's character is determined to bring legitimacy to his team by recruiting war hero and college football star Carter Rutherford (John Krasinski). Renée Zellweger plays Lexie Littleton, an ambitious reporter assigned to uncover the truth about Carter's war history. As Lexie delves into Carter's past, a love triangle forms.
Stream it on Peacock
'The Cutting Edge' (1992)
MGM
Stars: D.B. Sweeney, Moira Kelly, Roy Dotrice
"The Cutting Edge" stars D.B. Sweeney as Doug Dorsey, a former hockey player who, after an injury, switches to figure skating. He partners with Kate Moseley (Moira Kelly), a talented and spoiled figure skater aiming for Olympic gold. Initially, their relationship is tumultuous, but as they train together, they develop a deep bond. The film's portrayal of the rigorous training and behind-the-scenes of figure skating is both authentic and fascinating.
Stream it on Tubi
'Love & Basketball' (2000)
New Line Cinema
Stars: Omar Epps, Sanaa Lathan, Alfre Woodard
The film stars Omar Epps as Quincy McCall and Sanaa Lathan as Monica Wright, two aspiring basketball players who have known each other since childhood. Their shared passion for basketball leads them to navigate the challenges of their sport while exploring their feelings for each other. The film realistically portrays the struggles and triumphs of athletes, particularly female athletes, in a male-dominated sport. The evolving relationship between Quincy and Monica is beautifully depicted, highlighting how love and ambition can coexist and challenge each other.
Stream it on Paramount+, Showtime
'She's The Man' (2006)
Dreamworks
Stars: Amanda Bynes, Channing Tatum, Laura Ramsey
"She's The Man" is a modern twist on Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night," set in the world of high school soccer. The film stars Amanda Bynes as Viola Hastings, who disguises herself as her twin brother to play on the boys' soccer team. She falls for her teammate Duke (Channing Tatum), but he is smitten with Olivia (Laura Ramsey), who in turn develops a crush on Viola's male alter ego. The film cleverly uses the backdrop of soccer to explore themes of identity, gender roles, and love.
Stream it on Netflix, Paramount+
'Playing For Keeps' (2012)
Millennium Films
Stars: Gerard Butler, Jessica Biel, Catherine Zeta-Jones
Gerard Butler plays George, a former soccer star who's fallen from grace and is trying to get his life back on track. He starts coaching his son's soccer team, only to find himself becoming a local heartthrob. Jessica Biel stars as his ex-wife, Stacie, who George still harbors feelings for, making for a complicated romantic dynamic. Catherine Zeta-Jones plays a vivacious soccer mom, adding to the entanglement.
Stream it on Sling
'Fever Pitch' (2005)
Flower Films
Stars: Drew Barrymore, Jimmy Fallon, Jack Kehler
Fallon plays Ben, a die-hard Boston Red Sox fan whose life revolves around the baseball season. Barrymore's character, Lindsey, is a successful businesswoman who falls for him but struggles to understand his sports obsession. The film captures the spirit and culture of baseball fandom, making it relatable for sports enthusiasts. One of the most memorable aspects of "Fever Pitch" is its incorporation of the Red Sox's historic 2004 World Series win, which was integrated into the film's ending, giving it an authentic feel.
Stream it on Max
'Bend it Like Beckham' (2002)
CHRISTINE PARRY/FOX SEARCHLIGHT
Stars: Parminder Nagra, Keira Knightley, Jonathan Rhys Meyers
A cultural phenomenon blending soccer, culture, and romance. Parminder Nagra plays Jess, a young woman whose passion for soccer clashes with her traditional Indian family's expectations. Keira Knightley stars as Jules, Jess's friend and teammate, who helps her navigate the challenges of balancing her dreams with her family's wishes. Jonathan Rhys Meyers plays their coach, adding a romantic angle to the story. The film is celebrated for its depiction of cultural and gender barriers in sports, offering a unique and engaging narrative. Its impact extends beyond entertainment, as it sparked discussions about diversity and representation in sports and cinema.
Stream it on Disney+
'Silver Linings Playbook' (2012)
The Weinstein Company
Stars: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro
A unique blend of mental health issues, football fandom, and unexpected romance. Bradley Cooper plays Pat, a man rebuilding his life after a stint in a mental institution. Jennifer Lawrence's character, Tiffany, is a young widow with her own struggles. The two form an unconventional bond through dance and a shared love for the Philadelphia Eagles, with Robert De Niro playing Pat's Eagles-obsessed father. The film is lauded for its honest portrayal of mental health and its impact on relationships, with a backdrop of sports fandom. The performances, particularly Lawrence's Oscar-winning role, bring authenticity and heart to this touching and humorous story.
Stream it on Netflix
'Jerry Maguire' (1996)
TriStar Pictures
Stars: Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding Jr., Renée Zellweger
Tom Cruise plays the titular sports agent who has a moral epiphany. Cuba Gooding Jr. plays Rod Tidwell, a football player who becomes Jerry's sole client and friend. Renée Zellweger's character, Dorothy, is a single mother who falls for Jerry's charm. The film is renowned for its memorable lines and the dynamic between Jerry and Rod, reflecting the cutthroat nature of sports management with a human touch. Gooding Jr.'s Oscar-winning performance, combined with the romantic subplot, makes "Jerry Maguire" a standout.
Stream it on AMC+, Philo
'Bull Durham' (1988)
Orion Pictures
Stars: Kevin Costner, Susan Sarandon, Tim Robbins
When it comes to humor and heart, this baseball-themed romantic comedy is a grand slam. Kevin Costner plays Crash Davis, a veteran catcher sent to the minor leagues to mentor a young pitching prospect, played by Tim Robbins. Susan Sarandon stars as Annie, a baseball groupie who becomes romantically involved with both men. The film is praised for its authentic portrayal of baseball life and the chemistry between its leads. It's a classic in the genre, offering a mix of sports, romance, and witty dialogue.
Stream it on Max, The Roku Channel
