A new three-part biographical drama explores the life and career of Evonne Goolagong, the Australian Aboriginal tennis player renowned for winning Wimbledon twice, in 1971 and 1980, among other significant titles. The series offers a nuanced character study, focusing more on Goolagong's personal journey than on the sport itself.

Set against the backdrop of 1950s Barellan, New South Wales, the drama depicts Goolagong’s upbringing as the third of eight children in a close-knit family. The Goolagongs were the only Aboriginal family in their small community, and the series touches on the discrimination they faced, including scenes showing her father being directed to use a back door and a racial slur used against Evonne by a fellow player. However, the narrative is not overtly political, instead presenting these experiences with restraint.

Evonne’s early interest in tennis is sparked by a club built next to her family home, where she initially practices with a piece of wood hitting a ball against the wall. At the age of 12, she is noticed by coach Vic Edwards, prompting her to move to Sydney to train with his family, marking a significant turning point in her life and career. Their relationship evolves, including moments reflecting the often-complex dynamics between athlete and coach, culminating in a pivotal instance where Goolagong asserts her independence.

The series also chronicles her professional highs and lows, including injuries and her romantic relationship with Roger Cawley, a fellow junior player whom she later marries. The decision to use “Mrs R. Cawley” on scoreboards after her marriage is portrayed as a regrettable choice, though the couple have remained together for more than five decades.

Notably, Goolagong is shown distancing herself from the era’s political movements related to tennis. She declined to join Billie Jean King’s campaign for equal pay and continued to compete in South Africa during apartheid, choosing instead to maintain a low profile and avoid activism. The reasons behind her stance remain unexplored in detail within the drama.

The production is praised for its thoughtful storytelling and evocative cinematography, with emotional performances that culminate in a final scene featuring Goolagong herself. While the limited focus on tennis gameplay may disappoint some sports enthusiasts, the series offers insight into the personal resilience of one of Australia’s most iconic athletes.