Tennis Ball Gowns and Striped Boxers: Zendaya’s Sporty New Wardrobe Is Officially in Play

Zendaya’s wardrobe for the Dune: Part Two press tour had the world in a chokehold, as she showcased the latest runway pieces, like Alaïa’s 3D white bandeau dress from the fall 2024 collection, while also championing emerging talents, such as Paolo Carzana and Torishéju Dumi. Not stopping there, the actor wore rare vintage gems, too, like Thierry Mugler’s haute couture fall 1995 fembot suit and Givenchy’s fall 1999 circuit board skirt-suit by Lee McQueen. Now, as she embarks on another promo tour for a different film, Challengers, alongside co-stars Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist, Zendaya is switching up her fashion choices to reflect a sportier vibe.

Stylist Law Roach–who’s famously been responsible for the actor’s head-turning looks–shared an Instagram clip on Tuesday of Zendaya rocking a laid-back yet chic courtside ensemble, featuring a French-tucked blue Elisabetta Franchi button-up shirt paired with striped blue boxer shorts and white leather pumps.

Later that day, Zendaya transformed into a goddess to walk the red carpet at the film’s Sydney premiere in a custom Loewe creation by Jonathan Anderson (who designed the costumes for the movie). The glittery, plunging dress was cinched at the waist, adorned with a tennis player silhouette, a racket and a tennis ball–all in hues reminiscent of a court. She completed the look with matching glittery pointed-toe pumps.

In case you hadn’t guessed, Challengers, the latest film from Call Me By Your Name auteur Luca Guadagnino, is set in the world of Grand Slam tennis–hence the switch from Arrakis-inspired desert tones to Wimbledon green and sporty stripes. While her Dune: Part Two press tour looks were undeniably thrilling, anticipation is high for Z’s Challengers outfits. Whatever magic Zendaya and Law have up their sleeves, we know it’s going to be a serve.