The Rise of 'Challengers': Unraveling Zendaya's Tennis Drama and an Intense Onscreen Love Triangle

Zendaya is set to sizzle in her forthcoming sports drama, Challengers, both on and off the court.

Directed by Luca Guadagnino, this highly-anticipated film intertwines the realm of tennis with a captivating tale of youthful romance that transcends time. Scheduled for release in September, Challengers promises to leave audiences spellbound.

In the MGM production, Zendaya's character, Tashi, becomes entangled in a romantic dilemma involving her fellow tennis stars, Art (played by Mike Faist) and Patrick (played by Josh O'Connor). While their adolescent flirtation becomes complicated, it is only in adulthood that the true complexity of their relationships is fully understood.

As mature adults, Art and Patrick find themselves in a showdown during a "Challenger" match, a tournament considered to be one of the lowest levels in professional tennis. Once again, their rivalry is reignited as they vie for Tashi's affections. However, this time around, Art is married to Tashi, and Patrick is no longer a part of their circle of friends.

Guadagnino praised Zendaya, stating that she is remarkable and that her performance was so impressive that they hardly needed to use her body double during the movie's editing process. In June, MGM unveiled the official trailer for Challengers, describing the film as a portrayal of "the art of seduction and other games" on various social media platforms.

In the video, Tashi (played by Zendaya) stands out on the tennis court with her exceptional skills, making her the one to watch. Her confidence as a player extends to her personal life, captivating both Art (played by Faist) and Patrick (played by O'Connor). In the clip, Art asks, "Aren't you everybody's type?" before both he and Patrick engage in a romantic relationship with Tashi.

As they grow older, Patrick fades away from Tashi's life, but Art and Tashi forge a stronger bond. Tashi becomes a coach, guiding Art towards becoming a champion. However, their history with Patrick continues to linger.

Patrick playfully suggests that Tashi's possible interest in someone like him might be bothering Art, upon discovering that they will be competing against each other. Meanwhile, Tashi seems to be thoroughly enjoying the spectacle as both men compete for her affection and the prestigious title of tennis champion.

Scroll down to learn more about Zendaya’s Challengers:

Credit: Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures

‘Challengers’ Movie: Everything to Know About Zendaya’s Tennis Drama, Including an Onscreen Love Triangle

Zendaya is set to showcase her talent in the sports drama, Challengers, as she captivates audiences both on and off the court. Directed by Luca Guadagnino, this eagerly anticipated film seamlessly blends the realms of tennis and a captivating teenage love story that transcends time. Scheduled for release in September, Challengers promises to leave a lasting impression on viewers of all ages.

In the MGM production, Tashi, played by Zendaya, becomes entangled in a love triangle with her fellow tennis stars, Art (Mike Faist) and Patrick (Josh O'Connor). While their teenage romance becomes complicated, it is only when they reach adulthood that the true complexities of their relationships come to light.

As grown men, Art and Patrick find themselves competing against each other in a "Challenger" match, which is considered one of the lower levels of professional tournaments. Once again, they find themselves at odds over Tashi. However, this time, Art is married to Tashi and Patrick is no longer part of their circle of friends.

Guadagnino praised Zendaya, saying, "She is absolutely amazing." He also mentioned that during the editing process of the film, they hardly had to use her double because of her exceptional performance. In June, MGM unveiled the official trailer for Challengers, describing it as a film that explores the art of seduction and various other games.

In the video, Tashi (played by Zendaya) immediately stands out on the tennis court with her impressive skills, making her the one to watch. Her confidence as a player extends to her personal life, captivating both Art (played by Faist) and Patrick (played by O'Connor). In the video, Art remarks, "Aren't you everyone's type?", and both he and Patrick end up getting involved with Tashi.

As they move forward in life, Patrick gradually fades from Tashi's existence, allowing Art and Tashi to develop a stronger bond. Tashi assumes the role of a coach in adulthood, guiding Art to achieve greatness. However, their history with Patrick continues to linger in the background.

Patrick playfully suggests that Tashi might be bothered by the possibility that she could have been interested in someone like him. Meanwhile, Tashi seems to be thoroughly entertained by the spectacle of both men competing for her affections and the coveted title of tennis champion.

Scroll down to learn more about Zendaya’s Challengers:

Credit: JOHN EDDY/INSTARimages.com; Shutterstock(2)

Who Is in the ‘Challengers’ Cast?

Zendaya, who also serves as a producer, takes on the role of Tashi, a former tennis star-turned-coach. Meanwhile, Mike Faist (West Side Story) portrays Art, Tashi's husband, who is a tennis champion. Completing the main cast is Josh O'Connor (The Crown) as Patrick, Tashi's former flame and a fellow tennis professional.

Credit: Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures

What Is ‘Challengers’ About?

Following the conclusion of her professional playing career, Tashi directs her attention towards the goal of transforming her husband, Art, into a Grand Slam champion. In the midst of a series of losses, Tashi decides to enroll Art in a "Challenger" event, where he will go head-to-head with Patrick. Interestingly, Patrick happens to be Tashi's former teenage boyfriend and Art's former best friend, adding a layer of complexity to their intertwined histories and the sport itself.

Credit: Youtube(2)

How Did Zendaya Train for ‘Challengers’?

“They dedicated themselves for around three months, putting in immense effort,” Guadagnino (director of Call Me By Your Name) shared with Variety in October 2022. “Every individual involved – both in terms of technical aspects and physical abilities.” Brad Gilbert, a former tennis professional, was engaged as a consultant for the project.

Credit: Niko Tavernise / Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures

When Does ‘Challengers’ Hit Theaters?

Challengers comes out in the U.S. on September 15, 2023. However, in France, the drama will forgo a theatrical release and instead only be available on Prime Video.

Credit: Youtube

Watch the 1st ‘Challengers’ Trailer

In June 2023, the initial trailer for the movie was released, offering a glimpse into a complex love story involving Tashi, Art, and Patrick. The trailer suggests that during her active tennis career, Tashi had romantic involvement with both players, but ultimately decided to pursue a relationship with Patrick. However, when Tashi faces an injury, Art seems to emerge as a supportive figure, ultimately leading to their marriage. As the trailer progresses, it becomes apparent that years later, Tashi finds herself coaching Art as he competes against Patrick in a high-stakes tennis match, where the battle extends beyond the court.