June 2025 – Netflix Press Release
Netflix has officially announced the release of a stunning new documentary, Beyond the Baseline, chronicling the life and legacy of tennis icon Anna Kournikova. The series promises a never-before-seen look into the Russian star’s journey through fame, adversity, and reinvention — both on and off the court.
A Deeper Look Behind the Fame
While Kournikova is best known for her dazzling presence on the court and global stardom in the early 2000s, Beyond the Baseline goes far beyond her highlight reels. The four-part docuseries explores:
- Her rise as a teenage prodigy from Moscow to international tennis stardom
- The intense physical and psychological challenges that derailed her competitive career
- Her battles with media scrutiny and gender stereotypes in professional sports
- Her unexpected second act as a philanthropist and global fitness advocate
Produced by Emmy-winning filmmaker Carla Espinosa and narrated by Gal Gadot, the documentary blends exclusive interviews, rare archive footage, and personal insights from Kournikova herself. The tone is both intimate and empowering — a portrait of a woman who redefined her identity on her own terms.
Star-Studded Interviews
Beyond the Baseline features commentary from a range of voices across sports and culture, including:
- Martina Navratilova – On Kournikova’s early potential and technical skills
- Serena Williams – Reflecting on the pressures unique to women in tennis
- Enrique Iglesias – Offering a rare personal perspective on life outside the limelight
- Billie Jean King – Discussing Kournikova’s impact on sports marketing and visibility for female athletes
A Symbol of Duality: Talent and Celebrity
One of the most compelling themes of the series is the contrast between Kournikova’s undeniable talent and the often-dismissive media attention she received. While she never won a WTA singles title, her success in doubles — including Grand Slam victories with Martina Hingis — and her cultural resonance made her one of the most recognizable figures in sports.
Executive producer Lisa Tan explains, “This documentary isn’t about trophies. It’s about the power of reinvention. Anna was forced to navigate a world that constantly tried to define her, and she chose to reclaim that narrative.”
Legacy and Life Today
Now living a quieter life in Miami, Anna Kournikova remains active in charitable work, especially focusing on children’s health and fitness through organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The series also covers her efforts to promote wellness and body positivity among young women, drawing on her own experiences with unrealistic expectations and public scrutiny.
Streaming Release and Global Premiere
Netflix will premiere Beyond the Baseline globally on August 22, 2025, with a red-carpet event planned in New York City. A teaser trailer has already gone viral, hinting at a raw and emotional journey that will resonate with fans of sport, celebrity culture, and resilience.
Anna Kournikova, speaking in the trailer, summarizes it best:
“For years, people told my story for me. Now, it’s my turn.”
Tagline: “Not every champion needs a trophy. Some just change the game.”
Coming soon, only on Netflix.
