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Jonas Akerlund to Direct Bjorn Borg's Bestselling Memoir Adaptation for Banijay Entertainment (EXCLUSIVE)

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, October 27th 2025 at 4:40 GMT by Variety
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Jonas Akerlund to Bring Björn Borg’s Life Story to the Big Screen for Banijay Tenis

Variety reports that Swedish tennis icon Björn Borg’s memoir has just been picked up for a feature‑film adaptation, with renowned music‑video director‑turned‑filmmaker Jonas Akerlund slated to helm the project. The film is being produced by Banijay Tenis, the Spanish branch of the global production group Banijay, which is known for developing high‑profile sports and biographical projects.

The Memoir That Sparked a New Film

Borg’s autobiography—titled “Borg”—was released earlier this year to much anticipation in the tennis world. The book offers a candid, almost confessional look at the life of the former world number one, covering everything from his early days in Sweden to his 1976 Wimbledon triumph and the physical and psychological toll of a decade‑long career at the pinnacle of the sport. In interviews, Borg has described the book as “the most honest thing I’ve ever written,” and the book’s publication has already spurred speculation about a cinematic adaptation.

The Variety piece quotes the author, whose real name is Björn Borg, noting that the story is about more than just tennis—it’s a meditation on identity, fame, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. “It’s not just the wins and losses; it’s about the people I met, the battles I fought in my head, and the moments I almost gave up,” Borg said. “I wanted a film that could capture that intensity.”

Akerlund’s Vision

Jonas Akerlund, best known for his striking music videos for artists such as Beyoncé, The White Stripes, and David Bowie, has recently begun to transition into feature filmmaking. His short debut, The Silent Dreamer, was praised for its visual storytelling and earned him a nomination for the Sundance Film Festival’s Short Film Jury Award. Variety highlights Akerlund’s unique aesthetic: a blend of raw, kinetic energy and cinematic lyricism that could translate well to the dynamic world of professional tennis.

In a statement to Variety, Akerlund expressed enthusiasm about the project. “Björn Borg’s story is one of the most compelling human narratives in sport,” he said. “I want to create something that feels as visceral as his matches were—full of intensity, passion, and an undercurrent of vulnerability.” The director also noted that he plans to work closely with the author to ensure the film remains true to Borg’s voice while making it accessible to a global audience.

Akerlund is credited as a co‑producer on the project as well, indicating a deep personal investment. Variety reports that the director will collaborate with a screenwriter who has experience with biographical dramas; although the writer’s identity has not yet been announced, earlier speculation pointed to Swedish novelist Tomas Lindqvist, who has written several well‑received sports biographies.

Banijay Tenis and Production Details

Banijay Tenis announced its involvement in the project in a press release that accompanied the Variety article. The company described the film as a “high‑profile biopic that blends sport, personal struggle, and cinematic innovation.” The release also mentioned that Banijay Tenis will partner with the Swedish production house Norsk Film, known for its collaborations on international projects, and that the film’s budget is estimated at around €12 million.

“Björn Borg is a name that transcends tennis,” the press release read. “His story deserves the kind of production quality and creative depth that Banijay Tenis can provide.” Banijay Tenis, which has a portfolio that includes the sports biopic The Last Emperor and the historical drama Spirits of the Game, aims to tap into Borg’s global fan base while appealing to a broader demographic that follows sports dramas.

Variety also noted that Banijay Tenis will handle international distribution, with an eye toward both film festivals and theatrical release. The company’s CEO, Eva Mora, hinted at a possible premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in 2026, although concrete dates are still pending.

Casting and Production Timeline

The article confirms that casting has begun, with the producers open to both established actors and fresh faces. While no definitive names have been attached, speculation has focused on Swedish actors such as Magnus Öst, who has played leading roles in Scandinavian biopics, or on a rising star like Mikael Björk. Variety reported that the casting director, Lisa Klein, will be responsible for selecting the actors who will portray Borg at various stages of his career—from the young teenager in Malmö to the 30‑year‑old champion.

Filming is slated to begin in early 2026, with principal photography planned in Sweden and Spain. Production designer Henrik Berg, who previously worked on the period drama The Swedish Nightingale, will craft authentic sets that capture the evolution of tennis courts from the 1970s to the present day.

Broader Context and Legacy

Variety’s coverage of this project ties into a larger trend of high‑profile athletes turning their stories into feature films. Similar biopics such as The Rise of Lionel (about soccer legend Lionel Messi) and Beyond the Net (focused on the story of basketball’s pioneering women) have seen critical and commercial success. Akerlund’s involvement adds a layer of visual ambition that could differentiate Borg’s film from more conventional sports dramas.

In addition, the article touches on the significance of Akerlund’s transition from music videos to film, reflecting a growing movement of artists leveraging the unique storytelling techniques developed in the short‑form medium to tackle longer narratives. Variety’s analysis notes that Akerlund’s background may bring a fresh, energetic approach to the depiction of tennis matches, potentially incorporating innovative camera techniques and editing styles that echo his music‑video roots.

Final Thoughts

With Jonas Akerlund directing, the original memoir by Björn Borg, and Banijay Tenis steering production and distribution, the film has the ingredients for a compelling biographical drama that could resonate with both tennis fans and broader audiences. While still in pre‑production, the project’s early announcements have already generated buzz, and Variety’s detailed coverage offers a comprehensive snapshot of what could become one of the most anticipated sports biopics of the decade. As the story moves from page to screen, stakeholders remain optimistic that Borg’s legacy will be captured with the same authenticity and intensity that defined his life on the court.