Tennis enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating the release of “Challengers,” a Zendaya-led film that delves into the captivating world of the sport. The film, set to premiere in theaters next week in the U.S., has already garnered significant buzz, particularly among the star’s close-knit circle.
Zendaya’s grandmother, an avid tennis fan, is particularly excited about the film’s release. “She loves tennis, so she was so excited that I’m doing this movie,” Zendaya revealed during a recent press appearance. “She’s setting up a whole thing with all of her friends to go [see it].”
Despite the film’s R-rating and its exploration of mature themes, Zendaya expressed confidence that her grandmother would not be fazed by any potentially racy scenes. “She’s also seen ‘Euphoria,'” Zendaya said, referring to the HBO show for which she has won two Emmy Awards. “So it’ll be fine.”
The Los Angeles premiere of “Challengers” on Tuesday saw Zendaya gracing the red carpet, where she expressed her admiration for one of the WTA’s rising stars, Coco Gauff. “I love Coco [Gauff], I haven’t met her yet, but I sure hope so!” Zendaya exclaimed. “I know Brad’s [Brad Gilbert, the film’s tennis consultant] her coach, so I’m like, ‘I want to meet her!'”
While Gauff was unable to attend the premiere due to her participation in the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart, the tennis community was well-represented by Brad Gilbert, Eugenie Bouchard, and Venus Williams.
