Celebrity

Zendaya Channels Tennis Elegance in Thom Browne Gown at ‘Challengers’ Premiere

April 10, 2024

Zendaya, the multi-talented actress and fashion icon, turned heads at the London premiere of her upcoming movie, "Challengers." The 26-year-old star graced the red carpet in a stunning custom-made gown by the renowned American fashion designer Thom Browne.

The white sequin drop-waist pleated halter gown featured athletic mesh inserts, a nod to the film's tennis theme. The gown's hem was adorned with a red, white, and blue intarsia detail, while white bullion half-drop tennis racket icon embroidery added a playful touch to the elegant ensemble.

A focus of Vogue for its May cover story, Zendaya plays Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy turned coach who has transformed her husband Art (played by Mike Faist) into a Grand Slam champion. As a teen, Tashi is a tennis star with a junior title, a sponsorship deal, and a spot at Stanford. However, after a career-ending injury, she becomes a fiercely competitive coach, angling to win Art his first US Open. When Art's career hits a slump, Tashi enters him into a "Challenger" event — the lowest professional tournament level — where he must face off against Patrick (played by Josh O'Connor), Tashi's former boyfriend and Art's former best friend. As Art and Patrick face off across the court, their contest is, evidently, as much about proving themselves to Tashi as advancing to the Open.

Directed by Luca Guadagnino ("Call Me by Your Name"), "Challengers" is a romantic sports comedy-drama that explores themes of love, ambition, and the competitive nature of both sports and relationships. Zendaya's portrayal of Tashi Duncan has been highly anticipated, as the actress continues to take on challenging and diverse roles.

Zendaya's choice to wear a custom Thom Browne gown at the London premiere showcases her keen eye for fashion and her ability to make a statement on the red carpet. The actress has long been a fashion influencer, known for her daring and unique style choices, and this appearance is no exception.

As fans eagerly await the release of "Challengers," Zendaya's stunning red carpet look has only heightened the excitement surrounding the film and her role in it.