Banijay Entertainment confirmed Jarowskij/Yellow Bird and Mastiff Sweden are co-developing a scripted interpretation of Björn Borg’s bestselling memoir "Hjärtslag" (Heartbeat). Internationally renowned filmmaker Jonas Åkerlund will helm the adaptation, one of Sweden’s most influential directors, known for his groundbreaking music videos for Madonna, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and The Rolling Stones, as well as films like "Polar," "Spun," "Lord of Chaos," and the Netflix series "Clark."
This project also reflects Banijay Entertainment’s growing expansion in sport storytelling, following the launch of Banijay Sports, and underscores its commitment to delivering a bold, cross-genre offering to audiences worldwide. Björn Borg said: “I’ve spent my entire life in matches – both on and off the court. 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.”
Currently in development, the screen adaptation will explore Borg’s meteoric rise to tennis superstardom, including his unprecedented five consecutive Wimbledon titles and his shocking decision to retire at just 26. Based on Hjärtslag, published by Norstedts last month, the story delves into Borg’s life beyond the court, from childhood and tennis stardom to the years of financial collapse, media scrutiny, and personal reinvention.
Jonas Åkerlund, Writer/Director, 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 canon-balling into the deep end.”
Mattias Olsson, Head of Creative at Mastiff Sweden, and Elin Kvist, Chief Executive Officer, Jarowskij/Yellow Bird added: “We are incredibly proud to have been entrusted with this unique story, about one of the greatest sports heroes of all time, Björn Borg. There’s only one person who can tell it, and that’s the cultural force of Jonas Åkerlund. This is going to be a memorable biopic that must be seen.”
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