Stories of determination, hard work, breaking societal norms, and attaining greatness, sports memoirs are not just about accomplishments in individual games. Instead, they are inspirational works that showcase a more intimate side of athletes, their dreams, aspirations, and personal dilemmas through which they have risen to make a name for themselves globally. Here are four popular sports memoirs that give us an insight, beyond performances in competitions, into the lives and minds of extraordinary sportsmen and women.

Sports have a unique characteristic about them that brings people of different faiths, social status, and personalities together to cheer passionately for a common purpose. The intensity associated with playing various games is infectious, unlike any other recreational or professional activity taken up by humans. In a world where life and, consequently, sports have come to an abrupt halt, reading about influential sporting moments and the people associated with them can prove to be a refreshing exercise. Thus, here are four excellent books on sports that highlight the drama, joys, setbacks, and emotions associated with popular games from around the globe.