Björn Borg’s memoir is headed to the screen.
Banijay Entertainment is developing an adaptation of the tennis legend’s Heartbeats, Variety reports. Borg’s memoir, published last month by Diversion Books, tells the story of his life and career as one of the best tennis players of all time. A critic for Kirkus wrote of the book, “A beloved sportsman recalls big wins and secret struggles in this disarmingly vulnerable self-portrait.”
Borg first gained fame in the 1970s when he won the French Open at age 18. He would go on to win five more, and he prevailed at Wimbledon five times as well. In 1983, he retired at the age of 26, a decision that, in his memoir, he says he regrets.
Jonas Åkerlund, the heavy metal musician known for directing the films Spun, Lords of Chaos, and Polar, will helm the screen adaptation of Borg’s memoir.
“I’ve spent my entire life in matches—both on and off the court,” Borg said. “Jonas wants to explore both sides, and I feel the time is right for that. He has the eye, the energy, and the courage to tell my story in his own way.”
And Åkerlund said, “Everyone knows Björn Borg for his legendary moments on the court, for his fierce, unparalleled power as an athlete and icon. With his book, we finally dipped a toe into his enigmatic mind. But with this project, we’re canonballing into the deep end.”
Michael Schaub is a contributing writer.
