Tired of the same old sports biopics? You know, the ones that scream 'win at all costs' louder than a coach at halftime? Well, the ABC's new series about Australian tennis legend Evonne Goolagong Cawley is a refreshing change of pace. This isn't just a story about a tennis player; it's a deep dive into the life of a former world No. 1, a champion who clinched seven Grand Slam singles titles. Prepare to be captivated by a narrative that unfolds with grace and depth across three well-paced episodes.
From the get-go, director Wayne Blair sets a contemplative mood. His use of light and a flashback structure – more like flowing water than a tennis match – immediately sets this apart. We're not just watching a game; we're experiencing a life.
The series opens with Evonne (played by newcomer Lila McGuire) at Wimbledon, but quickly whisks us back to her childhood in the late 1950s. We see young Evonne and her family, the only Indigenous family in their new town of Barellan, New South Wales. "Never had a house with a proper floor," her mother, Linda (Chenoa Deemal), remarks, perfectly encapsulating the family's humble beginnings. Her father, Kenny (Luke Carroll), offers a simple yet profound promise: "Good things are gonna come, bub. Just you wait."
And this is where it gets interesting... The series, penned by Steven McGregor and Megan Simpson Huberman, masterfully avoids the usual biopic clichés. Instead, it prioritizes restraint and dignity, delivering the triumphs without resorting to bombast. This approach is key to understanding Evonne's journey.
The timeline shifts are deliberate, highlighting that the story is as much about where Evonne came from as where she was going. It's a crucial point, given her background, far removed from the wealth often associated with tennis. Seeing young Evonne practicing with a paddle against a brick wall feels authentic and impactful, showcasing her raw talent and determination.
A pivotal moment arrives when coach Vic Edwards (Marton Csokas) recognizes Evonne's extraordinary potential. This scene, reminiscent of a similar one in the film Shine, underscores the transformative power of mentorship. However, Edwards' character is complex, hinting at a more toxic side beneath his initial charm.
But here's where it gets controversial... The series doesn't shy away from the more complex aspects of Evonne's career, including her decision to play in apartheid-era South Africa, where she was granted "honorary white" status. This raises the question: Could she have done more? Did she make the right choices? The show doesn't offer easy answers, instead, it invites us to consider the ever-present intersection of sports and politics.
The tennis scenes are beautifully staged, focusing on the players' psychology rather than just the ball's trajectory. This approach underscores the show's core message: tennis is a lens through which we understand Evonne, not a measure of her worth.
What are your thoughts on how sports figures navigate the complexities of politics and social issues? Do you think the show successfully portrays Evonne's choices? Share your opinions in the comments below!
Goolagong premieres on ABC TV on Sunday at 8:20 PM, with all episodes available to stream on ABC iview.
