Tennis

Zendaya and Roger Federer Engage in Surreal Air Tennis Showdown for OnSwiss sportswear giant On has released a captivating new advertisement featuring global brand ambassador Zendaya and 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer in an epic air tennis showdown. The surreal ad invites viewers to suspend disbelief and witness a clash between these two cultural icons.Zendaya, who recently starred as a retired tennis prodigy in the film "Challengers," reprises her role in the ad. After spotting Federer in an On store, she challenges him to a game of air tennis, a mimed tennis match without the ball.The ad is filled with references to "Challengers," including Zendaya's signature sunglasses stare-down, the presence of her personal assistant Darnell Appling as chair umpire, and the techno soundtrack inspired by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross.On's partnership with Zendaya marks a full-circle moment for the actress, who has been a longtime fan of the brand. "I'm always wearing them on set, or when I'm traveling, rehearsing or running around with my dog," she said.Federer's involvement with On dates back to 2019, when he acquired a stake in the company. Since then, he has helped develop "The Roger" line of tennis shoes and has served as a global spokesperson.On has made significant strides in the tennis market in recent years. In 2022, the brand signed world No. 1 Iga Swiatek and American Ben Shelton to head-to-toe deals.The Zendaya and Federer air tennis showdown is a testament to On's growing presence in the sport. The ad showcases the brand's innovative spirit and its ability to connect with a wide audience through unique and engaging content.

Serena Williams, the undisputed GOAT of tennis, has weighed in on the critically acclaimed Hollywood film "Challengers," starring Zendaya as a former tennis prodigy. In an interview with The New York Times, Williams expressed her overall approval of the film, praising its accuracy and compelling interpersonal dynamics.While acknowledging the film's realistic portrayal of tennis, Williams found the relationships between the characters particularly relatable. She drew parallels between her own codependency with her sister Venus and the dynamics depicted in the film. "I feel like I was codependent with Venus," she said. "So I actually felt like there was so much accuracy in there about things that we don't think about as tennis players or even talk about as tennis players."Williams also appreciated the film's exploration of the loneliness that can accompany a tennis career. "There's definitely a lot of co-depending," she said. "You can also be a loner in tennis, so I don't know. ... I liked the movie. That's all I can say."Despite her positive review, Williams expressed a desire for a more conclusive ending. "I wanted there to be more of an ending," she said. "I told Zendaya, 'Listen, is there more? Like, I want more. Did they win?' I don’t want to give away the ending.""Challengers" has resonated with audiences worldwide, grossing nearly $50 million at the box office in the U.S. and over $92 million internationally. Its success underscores the film's ability to capture the complexities of the tennis world and the human relationships that shape it.

Zendaya Joins On Apparel as Brand Ambassador, Embracing "Tenniscore" StyleTennis-themed blockbuster "Challengers" has catapulted Zendaya into the spotlight as the newest brand ambassador for On apparel. The actress, known for her fashion icon status, will collaborate with On on design and creative campaigns, showcasing the brand's signature "tenniscore" aesthetic.Zendaya's partnership with On marks a significant moment for the brand, which has been making strides in the tennis world. In 2019, Roger Federer invested in the Swiss-based company, and last year, On signed deals with Iga Swiatek and Ben Shelton as its first on-court tennis apparel ambassadors.The collaboration between Zendaya and On was announced with a short film titled "Dream Together," directed by artist and choreographer C Prinz. The film highlights creative movement and the power of collaboration, values that align with On's brand identity."I owe so much to the people around me for getting me to where I am," Zendaya says in the film. "This film recognizes and appreciates those who support and uplift us every day."Zendaya's influence on fashion is undeniable. Her previous collaborations with luxury brands like Valentino, Louis Vuitton, and Lancôme have solidified her status as a style icon. Her partnership with On further cements the "tenniscore" trend, which she showcased during the promotional tour for "Challengers."On's rapid growth in tennis is evident in its recent signings. Former junior world No. 1 Joao Fonseca joined the brand shortly after turning professional. Federer, who has been an investor in On since 2019, congratulated Zendaya on her new role with a playful dad joke on social media."It's On," Federer quipped, referencing a scene from "Challengers" where Zendaya's character watches a tennis match.On co-founder David Allemann expressed his admiration for Zendaya's ability to inspire and connect with people. "We can't think of a better partner to help us grow, evolve, and connect with people around the world," he said.Zendaya echoed Allemann's sentiments, stating, "I've been a big fan of On for a long time. I'm always wearing them on set, or when I'm traveling, rehearsing, or running around with my dog. So it's a full-circle moment to make this partnership official."

Yulia Putintseva, the rising star of women's tennis, has emerged as a captivating personality both on and off the court. Known for her dry wit and candid opinions, Putintseva has become a fan favorite through her appearances on Daria Kasatkina's YouTube series, "What The Vlog?"Putintseva believes that Kasatkina's vlog provides a unique glimpse into the lives of tennis players, showcasing the challenges and sacrifices they face beyond the spotlight. She criticizes the Netflix series "Break Point" for its lack of authenticity and over-dramatization."They didn't even invite me; how could it be good?" Putintseva quipped. "I watched one episode with Kyrgios, and the rest was so bad, so dramatic."Putintseva also expresses reservations about the romantic drama "Challengers," starring Zendaya. She questions the casting choice, stating that Zendaya's appearance does not align with the physicality of a professional tennis player.Despite her skepticism towards certain tennis-themed media, Putintseva holds a fondness for the 2004 romcom "Wimbledon." She appreciates its portrayal of the sport and its setting in the historic All England Club.Putintseva's recent resurgence on the WTA Tour has propelled her into the spotlight. She has reached consecutive quarterfinals at the Miami Open and Mutua Madrid Open, cutting her ranking in half in just three months. This success has earned her a seeding at the Internazionali BNL d'Italia, the tournament that inspired her favorite film."I want to stay as long as possible here," Putintseva said. "I love the history of Rome so much. I love Italy in general: there's so much culture and so many great places to walk."Putintseva's love for Rome extends beyond its historical significance. She praises the city's architecture, art, and cuisine, particularly its delectable gelato.As she prepares to face Sloane Stephens in the second round of the Italian Open, Putintseva remains focused on her own journey. She embraces the opportunity to be the star of her own Roman Holiday, showcasing her talent and personality on the grand stage of tennis.

The release of the tennis-themed movie "Challengers" has sparked a surge in interest in the sport, with Google searches for "adult tennis lessons" skyrocketing by 245% worldwide. The film, starring Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O'Connor, depicts the glamorous world of professional tennis and features captivating tennis rallies.The movie's success has not only generated box office revenue but has also inspired audiences to take up the sport. According to Venture Smarter, a business consulting firm, searches for "kids tennis classes" have also increased by 205%.The renewed interest in tennis aligns with National Tennis Month in the United States, which runs throughout May. This provides an ideal opportunity for individuals to experience the physical and mental benefits of the sport."Challengers" has received critical acclaim for its realistic tennis scenes, which were choreographed by renowned coach Brad Gilbert. The film's combination of on-court action and off-court drama has resonated with viewers, inspiring them to pursue their own tennis journeys.The movie's impact extends beyond the box office, promoting the sport and encouraging people to lead healthier and more active lifestyles. With its captivating storyline and stunning visuals, "Challengers" has become a catalyst for a resurgence in tennis enthusiasm.

Challengers: Josh O'Connor Draws Inspiration from Nick Kyrgios and British Football for Patrick ZweigIn the upcoming tennis-themed drama "Challengers," actor Josh O'Connor's portrayal of Patrick Zweig is a captivating blend of the on-court antics of Nick Kyrgios and the brash personalities of British football.O'Connor revealed that Kyrgios's "good trouble" on the court was a key inspiration for Zweig's character. "There's something really entertaining about Kyrgios," he said. "But my love of him as a tennis player comes from this film, because it was about, 'How do we find a character I can take stuff from for Patrick?'"Beyond Kyrgios, O'Connor also drew from the personalities that pervade British football to create Zweig, a brash and arrogant athlete who achieved early success despite an unorthodox technique. "It was more than the tennis playing. It was the in-between, when he's sitting down and resting," O'Connor explained. "He'll do very provocative things that I'd find both terrible and endearing."The film's stars, including Zendaya and Mike Faist, acknowledged the challenges of portraying tennis players on screen. "Tennis is not what we do for a living and it's not something you can just pick up," said Zendaya, who plays Tashi Duncan, the single-minded prodigy at the heart of the film's love triangle.Faist agreed, emphasizing the sport's technical nuances and the need for precise alignment. "It's impossible because this sport is so nuanced and so specific in terms of the technique and the format," he said. "It's about drilling those physical movements to the point where you don't have to think about them."Despite the challenges, the cast and crew of "Challengers" embraced the opportunity to explore the complexities of tennis and its impact on the lives of its players. The film, directed by Luca Guadagnino and written by Justin Kuritzkes, debuts in theaters on Friday, April 26.

Zendaya's Tennis-Inspired Fashion Reigns Supreme at "Challengers" Premiere AfterpartyZendaya, the star of the upcoming tennis-themed film "Challengers," once again showcased her impeccable style at the afterparty for the film's Los Angeles premiere. After gracing the red carpet in a stunning Vera Wang gown, Zendaya transformed into a custom Celia Kritharioti creation that perfectly captured the essence of her on-screen role.The floor-length gown, a vibrant tennis ball-yellow, featured an eye-catching detail: an actual tennis ball positioned at the bottom of the deep V-neck. This playful touch echoed the "method dressing" approach that Zendaya and her stylist, Law Roach, have adopted for the film's promotional tour.At the afterparty, Zendaya had the pleasure of meeting former Wimbledon finalist Eugenie Bouchard. Bouchard, who attended the premiere alongside tennis legends Tracy Austin and Venus Williams, shared a photo with Zendaya on social media, dubbing her "the new tennis queen."Zendaya's encounter with Bouchard was just one of several interactions she has had with the tennis world during the press tour for "Challengers." Coco Gauff's coach, Brad Gilbert, served as the film's tennis consultant, while Venus Williams revealed that Zendaya had sought her out at the premiere.Despite her connections to the tennis world, Zendaya has yet to meet Gauff herself. However, after learning of Zendaya's desire to meet her, Gauff extended an open invitation from the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart."I'm such a fan and you're a huge inspiration for me," Gauff said. "Maybe one day we can meet up and even get a little hit in."Zendaya's viral tennis-themed fashion has garnered widespread attention and admiration. Her ability to seamlessly blend style and substance has made her a true fashion icon. As "Challengers" prepares to hit theaters, Zendaya's unique approach to dressing for the role is sure to continue captivating audiences.

Zendaya's "Challengers" Press Tour Pays Homage to Tennis Legends Venus and Serena WilliamsZendaya's fashion choices for the "Challengers" press tour have been nothing short of captivating, drawing inspiration from the film's tennis theme. However, her latest ensemble pays tribute to two of the sport's most iconic figures: Venus and Serena Williams.In a stunning photoshoot for Vogue magazine, Zendaya channeled the Williams sisters in a flowing, black-and-white Carolina Herrera gown and white beads. The look was an exact replica of the one worn by Venus and Serena for a Vogue shoot in 1998, where they were photographed embracing on a white couch.Carolina Herrera designer Wes Gordon expressed his admiration for the original image, calling it "iconic" and collaborating with Zendaya's stylist, Law Roach, to recreate it for the actress. Roach shared the photos on Instagram, describing it as an "ode to the greats" and tagging the Williams sisters.Zendaya's tribute to the Williams sisters extends beyond the photoshoot. At the "Challengers" Los Angeles premiere, she had the opportunity to meet Venus Williams, who was among the guests. Zendaya expressed her excitement about Williams' attendance, and later shared a photo of them on the red carpet, writing, "Wow ... this is so special."Williams responded in the comments, "Update: Zendaya found me."Zendaya's fashion choices and her admiration for the Williams sisters highlight the enduring impact of these tennis legends. Their influence extends beyond the court, inspiring fashion and empowering women around the world.

Zendaya's Stunning Style Transformation at 'Challengers' Premiere and AfterpartyZendaya, the epitome of fashion and style, graced the red carpet of the Los Angeles premiere of "Challengers" in a breathtaking pink and black Vera Wang gown. The intricate lace bodice and voluminous tulle and satin skirt exuded elegance and sophistication. Her minimal accessories complemented the gown perfectly, allowing her natural beauty to shine through.During the red carpet, Zendaya revealed her admiration for tennis prodigy Coco Gauff, expressing her desire to meet the young star. Her passion for tennis was evident in her "method dressing" approach, where she incorporates elements of her movie characters into her outfits.For the afterparty at Funke in Beverly Hills, Zendaya transformed into a vibrant and playful persona. She donned a plunging neon yellow Celia Kritharioti Couture gown, reminiscent of the iconic tennis balls. The white heels added a touch of contrast and completed the look.Tennis stars past and present graced the event, including Venus Williams, Eugenie Bouchard, and Tracy Austin. They joined A-listers like Cynthia Erivo and Tina Knowles, adding to the star-studded atmosphere.Zendaya's style evolution throughout the "Challengers" promo tour has been a testament to her versatility and fashion prowess. From the Loewe tennis player dress in Sydney to the tennis ball heels in Rome, she has effortlessly blended her on-screen persona with her off-screen style.The premiere of "Challengers" marks a significant moment for Zendaya, who has established herself as a fashion icon and a rising star in the film industry. Her ability to captivate audiences with her performances and her impeccable style continues to inspire and amaze.