The much-anticipated Netflix docuseries “Break Point” released Season 1 in two drops. In my review of the first five episodes that ran last January, I predicted that I would be unlikely to prioritize watching the remaining half of the season scheduled for release during the midst of the grass-court season. However, I found that it was the perfect elixir for the lull between the end of Wimbledon and the start of the hard court series leading into the US Open.
It is hard for me to imagine that any regular reader of this blog is unfamiliar with this series. However, just in case, “Break Point” is a documentary produced in collaboration between Netflix, the ATP, and the WTA. It gives a behind-the-scenes look at the players and tournaments on the professional tours.
I previously described the ASMR effect that the first five episodes had on me at times. Consequently, I was somewhat surprised when it was announced that it had been renewed for a second season last March. However, after watching the remaining episodes of Season 1, I can better understand the decision. “Break Point” gained serious momentum in the second half.
Episodes 5 and 6 focused on the action at Wimbledon and provided a stunning portrait of the fortnight. The next two episodes were centered around the US Open. In particular, E7 is the absolute best of Season 1 and the most powerful commercial for that tournament you will ever see. Season 1 culminates with coverage of the ATP and WTA Finals, both events that desperately need more marketing exposure.
After watching the full season, I believe the producers did an excellent job stitching together season-long narratives out of the week-to-week chaos of professional tennis. My only criticism is that the series focused too much on the Grand Slam events, which hurts the marketability of the regular ATP and WTA tour events. However, the show is trying to attract new fans to the sport and it makes sense to start with what is already somewhat well-known.
I am looking forward to Season 2 of “Break Point.”
