We never thought a collab between "Euphoria [1]" and "The Crown" would result in a pro tennis tournament, but here we are. On 11 Feb., MGM announced that Zendaya [2] and Josh O'Connor are starring side by side in Luca Guadagnino's new romantic drama titled "Challengers." The movie — which is written by playwright Justin Kuritzkes — is produced by Zendaya, Guadagnino, and "Spider-Man: No Way Home" producer Amy Pascal.
In the first trailer for the film, which MGM dropped on 20 June, Zendaya appears as up-and-coming tennis star Tashi Duncan. She meets two other young athletes on the circuit, played by O'Connor and Faist, and they quickly get entangled in a threesome. When Tashi is injured, Faist's character rushes to her side. She pivots her tennis career to become his coach — and wife. All is well until O'Connor's Patrick comes back into their lives years later. The entire high-energy clip is soundtracked by Rihanna [3]'s "S&M."
Find out more about the upcoming film ahead, including the full plot and release date, and stream the trailer.
"Challengers" Plot
According to Variety [5], "Challengers" takes a look at the competitive world of tennis [6] through the eyes of player-turned-coach Tashi Duncan (Zendaya [7]). Through years of coaching, Tashi has turned her husband, Art (Faist), into a Grand Slam tennis champion. When Art becomes caught in a losing streak, Tashi attempts to help him find his groove again by enrolling him in a "Challenger" event at the lowest pro tournament level. During the competition, Art must go up against Patrick (O'Connor), aka Tashi's ex-boyfriend and former best friend.
"Challengers" Cast
Zendaya [8] appears as tennis player Tashi Duncan, alongside O'Connor and Faist.
"Challengers" Release Date
"Challengers," from director Guadagnino (pictured here), will premiere in theaters only on 15 Sept.