Zendaya sought the expertise of Olympian and former pro Brad Gilbert to learn tennis for her upcoming film 'Challengers.' Gilbert, who also coached Coco Gauff before her US Open win, shared insights on training the movie star. Gauff mentioned Zendaya's quick grasp of tennis despite her limited experience, with Gilbert assisting in various aspects of the film's production.
According to reports, Zendaya approached Gilbert in 2022 for assistance with 'Challengers,' a Luca Guadagnino project centered on a former tennis prodigy. Gilbert trained Zendaya for three months in California, including match observations at Pepperdine University, and contributed during the four-month filming period in New York and Boston. He also coached Zendaya's co-stars and aided in choreographing match sequences.
During the US Open, Zendaya expressed her support for Gauff, who went on to secure her first Grand Slam title. Gauff later received a substantial floral arrangement from Zendaya, which she described as a memorable gesture. The tennis prodigy, recognized as one of Time's 2024 Women of the Year, eagerly anticipates the release of 'Challengers,' citing her admiration for Zendaya and the film's tennis theme.
