Challengers, is an interesting sports film about tennis... or is it really about tennis?
The story follows two male tennis players, Art and Patrick, who start as best friends passionate about the game. Their dynamic changes when they encounter Tashi Duncan (played by Zendaya), a teenage tennis superstar they both become obsessed with.
Tashi is a formidable player with a singular focus on winning. As both friends slowly fall deeper into their obsession, they lose sight of their own friendship and start become obsessed with winning. Specifically, winning Tashi.
SPOILERS AHEAD
Art eventually marries Tashi, though complications arise. Patrick becomes entangled in their lives through various "challenger" tournaments, and Tashi positions herself as his "prize" to be won.
Tashi's true motivations are ambiguous, adding to the film's complexity. She might be a slight sociopath driven solely by a need to win and dominate. However, not everything is within her control.
SPOILERS END
Both men’s love for Tashi is flawed and somewhat toxic. Art is so in love with her, that he'll continue playing competitive tennis at the cost of his own happiness. Patrick's deep infatuation with her brings him to do immoral things so he can run into her again.
In a way both men "lose" their way in trying to win her. Trying to win her love, and her approval. Tennis ceases to be about the sport and becomes a means to win her.
Tashi embodies the paradox of human desire: the constant drive to win and compare, even though the satisfaction of victory is fleeting and only fuels further desire.
The film masterfully reveals how an obsession with winning can consume us, leading to a satisfying conclusion. It suggests that while our desire to win and achieve can be powerful, true fulfillment comes from appreciating the journey and recognizing our genuine connections.
