In this episode of Drop-Shot, we dive into Luca Guadagnino's latest film, "Challengers," a steamy exploration of lust, power plays, and tennis. Join me and my fellow tennis enthusiast Nicole, as we discuss Zendaya's captivating performance as Tashi, the intricate dynamics between the characters, and the film's unique blend of romance and competition. We'll unpack the thrilling plot, the use of music to heighten tension, and the film's bold portrayal of the intersection between sport and desire. Tune in for an engaging conversation that goes beyond the baseline of this sensational new tennis drama.

With today’s guest Stefano Tognazzi, we comment on how Alexander Zverev becomes an ATP Masters 1000 champion for the sixth time. The German moved past first-time Masters 1000 finalist Nicolas Jarry 6-4, 7-5 on Sunday at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia to win the title in Rome for a second time. Zverev will climb to No. 4 in the PIF ATP Rankings on Monday, with his Rome title the biggest he has earned since he suffered a catastrophic ankle injury in the Roland Garros semi-finals in 2022. Prior to Sunday, the 27-year-old’s most recent Masters 1000 triumph came in Cincinnati in 2021, while he also lifted the Nitto ATP Finals trophy in the same season.

Meanwhile, on the WTA side… If Iga Swiatek can keep up her form, it’s hard to imagine anyone preventing her from winning a fourth French Open title. The top-ranked Swiatek dominated in her latest meeting with No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka, winning the Italian Open final 6-2, 6-3 on Saturday to earn her third trophy on Rome’s red clay. Swiatek didn’t drop a set at the Foro Italico and extended her tour winning streak to 12 matches. In the semifinals, she was almost as dominant in a 6-4, 6-3 win over No. 3 Coco Gauff. Roland Garros starts next weekend and Swiatek will be aiming for a third straight title in Paris and fourth overall.

Rafael Nadal has won 22 Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 French Open singles titles, and is one of only two men to win all four majors and Olympic gold. From his early days wielding a racket in Mallorca to his record-breaking achievements on the world stage, we'll explore the triumphs, challenges, and defining moments that have shaped Nadal's legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time. Get ready for insightful commentary, captivating anecdotes, and a deeper understanding of what makes the "King of Clay" a true icon in the world of tennis.