Challengers: Zendaya takes inspiration from ‘iconic’ Venus, Serena Williams

Zendaya praised iconic sister duo Venus and Serena Williams for the inspiration behind her character in the new sports drama film. Challengers,

in conversation with People“That was my only understanding of tennis as a kid growing up,” the actress shared.

He added, “When I thought about tennis as a kid, he was the one for me. He’s the entry point for me to understand anything about tennis.”

For those unaware, Zendaya plays Tashi Duncan, a teenage tennis player who gets caught up in a “complicated love triangle,” in the newly released film.

Excitement The actress also spoke in detail about her journey of learning tennis by doing a lot of research on Venus and Serena.

She shared, “They’re iconic, and I admire both of them so much, not only for what they’ve accomplished in sports, but I think beyond that: what they’ve done for so many people, especially Black women. Effects and their significance.”

Speaking about her fictional character Tashi, Zendaya said she doesn’t want to be compared to the greatest tennis duo of all time.

She added, “I don’t want to compare myself in any way in this performance because I’m nowhere near the greatness that he has.”