Zendaya Swings into Action: The Actress’s New Tennis Film ‘Challengers’ Promises Drama and Romance

Zendaya, known for her role in Spider-Man: No Way Home, is transitioning from web-slinging to tennis in the film Challengers. 

The movie, first announced in February 2022, follows the story of pro tennis player Tashi, played by Zendaya, who finds herself in a love triangle with her current husband and former boyfriend.

The film explores a complex entanglement between Tashi and her two lovers, who are also tennis rivals. 

Challengers Not Based on a True Story

It promises a mix of romance, competition, and drama, both on and off the court. 

To prepare for her role, Zendaya underwent intensive training with a professional tennis coach.

The movie reunites Zendaya with producer Amy Pascal from Spider-Man: No Way Home, alongside executive producers Bernard Bellew and Kevin Ulrich. 

Zendaya Takes on Tennis

The film is directed by Luca Guadagnino, known for his work on Call Me by Your Name. Guadagnino praised Zendaya’s commitment and skill in mastering tennis for the role.

In addition to Zendaya, the film features Mike Faist as Tashi’s husband Art, and Josh O’Connor as her former love interest, Patrick. 

Both actors bring their own impressive backgrounds to the film—Faist from the stage production of Dear Evan Hansen and Spielberg’s West Side Story, and O’Connor from his role as Prince Charles in The Crown.

Challengers is Guadagnino’s first comedy, a departure from his previous work. 

He describes the film as “beautifully complex” and “fairly fizzy,” blending romance, sports, and drama. 

The first trailer was released on June 20, 2023, with a second trailer following in February 2024.

Filming for Challengers began in May 2022 and wrapped up in June 2023, primarily taking place in Boston. 

The movie is set to premiere in theatres on April 26, 2024.

Fans are eagerly awaiting the film, which promises a unique mix of sports and romance, anchored by Zendaya’s stellar performance.