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‘Challengers’ ending explained: Who wins the game for Zendaya’s heart?

Warning: The following article contains spoilers for Luca Guadagnino’ Challengers.

While director Luca Guadagnino is no stranger to success, Challengers is arguably his best movie yet. With a trio of Oscar-worthy performances by Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist, Challengers is a sports game like no other, where tennis is secondary to the intricate web of human emotions Guadagnino weaves on the silver screen.

As the movie’s title betrays, the story occurs in a Challengers tournament, where tennis players compete to get to the qualifiers of big professional tournaments. On one side of the field is Patrick Zweig (O’Connor), a struggling player who never got a chance to play in the big leagues. His opponent, Art Donaldson (Faist), is one of the top players in the world, attending a small competition to build up his confidence before going for the US Open. In the crowd, there’s Tashi Duncan (Zendaya), who watches closely as the duel between Patrick and Art escalates.

Instead of sticking to the present moment, Challengers uses extensive flashbacks to explain the complicated relationship between the movie’s three main characters. In doing so, Guadagnino reveals what’s really at stake – and it’s not a trophy.

What’s really at stake in the final match?

Zendaya as a tennis player in ChallengersImage via Amazon MGM Studios

Tashi was a fierce tennis player who signed an Adidas contract before beginning her professional run. She was destined to make tennis history, but an accident during a match robbed her of her glory. Now, Tashi is married to Art, who she coaches to achieve everything she can’t. By winning the US Open, Art will get his Carrer Grand Slam, which in tennis lingo means winning all four major international championships in the same season. Winning is everything for Tashi, who pushes Art to the brink so he can get what she never could.

In turn, Art worships Tashi and sacrifices his individuality to make his wife happy. He wants to quit tennis and pursue other dreams but keeps playing because that’s what Tashi thinks is better. It’s tragic, as Art trades his happiness for Tashi’s glory. Meanwhile, the fact that Art never challenges her pushes the couple apart since Tashi needs more than an obedient servant. Despite their success and beautiful daughter, the power couple drowns in resentment and regret, all in the name of tennis victory.

To make matters even more complicated, Patrick was once Art’s best friend and Tashi’s lover. Patrick is wild, impulsive, and always stands his ground. He excites Tashi, and they have a primal sexual connection. However, she needs to control her partner, which Patrick can’t accept. That’s why they eventually broke up, and Tashi ended up with Art. As for Patrick and Art, their unbreakable bond was shattered because of Tashi, with Art taking her side on the separation and feeding his jealousy for years. Art knows he can never fulfill Tashi’s needs as Patrick did. This fact turns into a bitter grudge after Art sees things that raise a red flag about Tashi and Patrick having an affair, burying the two men’s friendship.

Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O'Connor in a steamy scene from 'Challengers'Image via Amazon MGM Studios

Tashi did cheat on Art with Patrick eight years before the Challengers competition. She does it again on the evening before the finals when Art and Patrick will face each other for the first time since they were teenagers. Tashi tries to convince Patrick to lose the match on purpose so Art can boost his ego and win the US Open. Patrick agrees but underlines that it is a bigger treason than just having sex with his former best friend.

That’s what’s at stake in the final match of the Challengers. Art wants to prove himself and beat his old friend, which he never did when they were young. The victory would prove Art is a true champion. It would also symbolize Art’s ultimate triumph against Tashi’s lover, who’s always casting a shadow over their marriage.

On the other hand, Patrick must beat Art to get his last chance as a professional tennis player. However, we want to keep his word to Tashi, as he still feels terrible about everything that went down in their past. Finally, Patrick wants Art to have his glory, so he tells Tashi he will put up a challenge before forfeiting the match.

Tashi is playing with the fate of Patrick and Art to get what she wants, and she wants it all. Nevertheless, things don’t go as planned, with all three characters meeting a surprising ending.

Who wins the Challengers tournament?

Zendaya in ChallengersImage via Amazon MGM Studios

The short answer could be: Art. Yet, things are more complicated than that, and we could argue everyone wins.

After an intense match, Patrick intentionally misses a couple of shots to give Patrick the victory. However, when Art is one point away from victory, Patrick changes his mind, making a hand signal that reveals he had an affair with Tashi. Art is furious and lets Patrick score some free points so they can both be one step away from victory. The rules are settled. The differences must be solved in the field, and no one will give up this time.

An exhilarating montage follows in which Patrick and Art show their tennis prowess. The ball ricochets from one side of the field to the other as each player lets all their rage melt away all the walls they built between them. Art performs a mighty blow that wins him the victory, and the two old friends lock their arms in a warm embrace. From the stand, Tashi screams with joy, celebrating Art’s victory.

Mike Faist exercising in Challengers while Zendaya looms in the backgroundImage via Amazon MGM Studios

When Patrick decides to tell Art the truth in the middle of the game, he shows how much he respects his old friend. Patrick cannot do what Tashi wants because he understands Art must be free to achieve his goals regardless of his wife’s desires. Patrick is tired of seeing Art as Tashi’s puppet, and he pushes his friend’s limits to set him free. That’s precisely what he gets.

Art wins more than the Challengers’ trophy in the match. He rediscovers his tennis passion, which he first found when he played with Patrick as a friend. Years of duty and obedience shatter, and he feels joy playing for the first time in many years. He also understands the gift Patrick is offering him and realizes how foolish he has been for shunning away his friend. Art and Patrick’s bond is stronger than Tashi’s grasp, and their embrace heals all old wounds, turning them into brothers once more.

Finally, while Tashi has dedicated her life to becoming a champion, she yearns for a tennis match in which the sport reveals the truth about the players. That kind of connection got severed due to her injury, and she never again witnessed the intensity of the sport — at least until the Challengers’ final match. When Patrick and Art play the final set, they bare their souls in front of the audience, a spectacle that reminds Tashi of how she felt while playing. It’s a moment of utter jubilation for Tashi and the thrill she needs to feel complete.

Tennis is just a ball, two players, and a few rules. Yet, Guadagnino turned it into a beautiful and intense festival of raw human emotion.

By: Marco Vito Oddo
Title: ‘Challengers’ ending explained: Who wins the game for Zendaya’s heart?
Sourced From: wegotthiscovered.com/movies/challengers-ending-explained-luca-guadagnino/
Published Date: Fri, 26 Apr 2024 10:33:07 +0000

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I’m a former vet assistant who has trimmed hundreds of dogs’ nails — this nail grinder is the most beginner-friendly tool

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A side-by-side image of a person grinding a dog's nail using the Dremel grinder and the grinder laid on a wood surface.The Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit includes everything you need to grind a dog's nails.

Jackie Brown; Lisa Sabatini/Business Insider

Trimming your dog's nails is an essential part of routine pet care, but it can be intimidating for many dog owners. If you're worried you'll accidentally hurt your dog while cutting their nails, you can always take them to the vet or groomer to get the job done. Using a dog nail grinder at home is also an excellent alternative that can save you plenty of time and money.

As a former veterinary assistant who has trimmed thousands of dogs' nails, I know that not all nail grinders are the same. Some are designed for use by professional groomers who are comfortable and familiar with using them safely. However, most people benefit from extra safety features, and that's why I love the Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit. The Dremel nail grinder is not only effective and user-friendly, but it also has a guard that protects you and your dog from the spinning parts.

How it works

Nail grinders are a great option for most dogs, including those with very thick nails. They're particularly useful for dogs with black nails that don't have a visible quick, which is the vein inside of each nail. Plus, dogs that are anxious about having their nails trimmed with regular clippers may be more willing to accept a nail grinder.

The Dremel PawControl Kit includes everything you need to gently and easily grind down your dog's nails, including an optional guard attachment along with a variety of sanding bands and discs. The guard provides a barrier between the spinning parts of the tool so nothing can get caught up in them.

I personally preferred using the sanding disc, which the manufacturer recommends for beginner users. You insert your dog's nail through the opening in the clear guard attachment, which is designed to ensure you are grinding the nail at the ideal 45-degree angle.

Our review of the Dremel dog nail grinder

I first used the Dremel PawControl when I was testing grinders for our guide to the best dog nail clippers. I tried four different nail-grinding tools on two dogs with different-sized nails.

The Dremel PawControl stands out for several reasons. It's lightweight, gentle, and quiet, and offers four speed settings so you can select the one that's most comfortable for you and your dog. Designed for pet owners, it's easy to use and comes with various grinding attachments for flexibility. Plus, the guard attachment offers added peace of mind so you can focus on the task at hand.

A close-up image of the safety guard on the Dremel dog nail grinder.The removable nail guard attachment is recommended for new users.

Jackie Brown/Business Insider

Dremel is renowned for its high-quality rotary tools for tasks like cutting, sanding, and engraving. The PawControl should last many years and can even be used for tasks beyond nail grinding. While the grinding heads will need occasional replacement, the included ones should last for several years of use with your dog. It's also powered by a USB rechargeable lithium-ion battery, allowing you to use it anywhere without the hassle of a cord getting in your way while you work.

Nail grinders have a definite learning curve, but this one comes with an easy-to-follow Quick Start Guide that walks you through the entire process. It explains which attachments and grinding speeds are best for beginners and offers tips for getting your dog comfortable with the tool.

The Dremel PawControl Quick Start Guide has text and diagrams showing how to introduce a dog to the nail grinder.If you're new to nail grinding, the Quick Start Guide provides clear directions and helpful illustrations.

Lisa Sabatini/Business Insider

Cons to consider

The guard attachment enhances safety, but its single opening for inserting your dog's nail can limit maneuverability. However, you can always remove the guard attachment if you feel confident in your skills. Since this grinder is cordless, you'll need to remember to charge it before use.

The bottom line

If you're looking for a pet nail grinder, the Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit is an excellent choice, especially if you're new to using these tools. It's effective, gentle, quiet, lightweight, and cordless, and thanks to the guard attachments, its safety is unparalleled.

Read the original article on Business Insider

——————————————-
By: [email protected] (Jackie Brown)
Title: I’m a former vet assistant who has trimmed hundreds of dogs’ nails — this nail grinder is the most beginner-friendly tool
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/guides/pets/dremel-dog-nail-grinder-review
Published Date: Mon, 17 Mar 2025 18:22:20 +0000

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An ex-Microsoft VP of HR explains 3 things you can do to stay on your boss’s radar and off the layoff list

There is a yellow background and three small white figurines in business suits, with a large handheld magnifying glass centered on the middle figure.Chris Williams, ex-Microsoft VP of HR, wrote that being visible helps avoid uncomfortable inquiries like DOGE's "five bullet points" requested email.

sakchai vongsasiripat/Getty Images

  • Chris Williams is an ex-VP of HR at Microsoft and has over 40 years of executive experience.
  • Williams said being visible can help workers avoid DOGE-like emails requesting accomplishments.
  • He shared how to track accomplishments, get recognized, and know when to help out at work.

The "five things you did last week" email that DOGE sent to all federal workers has raised an important question for employees everywhere. How do you stay on your boss's radar in a positive way?

Simply put, if your boss already knew what you were up to, they wouldn't need to send an email like that. As the former VP of HR for Microsoft with 40 years of business leadership experience, I've seen a lot of people who know how to stay visible.

Being visible helps avoid uncomfortable inquiries like the "five bullet points" request and makes performance reviews easier for both you and your boss. It helps you avoid being labeled an underperformer when cuts are considered and it can help you be more top of mind when opportunities arise — it's a great way to "manage up."

Here are three ways to help you stay visible to your boss and reduce your chances of being laid off.

You should always track your accomplishments at work

It doesn't matter if your boss sends an intrusive status report request like "send five bullet points from last week" or a simple "Hey, what's up?" inquiry; you should always be ready to talk about what you've been up to.

That's why you should track your accomplishments. There are many ways to do this. Some people keep a "brag book," a simple document where they list the significant things they've done. Others use a notes application or even a complex database.

For years I kept a simple four-column spreadsheet

My spreadsheet had columns labeled: Date, Item, Significance, and Notes. Every day, or at worst, every week, I'd add a couple of rows to the sheet. I'd insert the date and a phrase for the item — just enough to remind me what it was.

In the significance column, I'd put a number to represent how important the item felt at the time, with "5" being the highest. In notes, I'd add a comment or even a link to the project or document.

Then whenever I wanted, I could sort by significance and date and get the most important things from the last month, week, or year. When bosses requested a progress report, I was always ready to respond: "I'm glad you asked."

The best way to ensure this happens is to make it a habit. Spend two minutes updating your list at the end of every day. This also helps at performance review time, where you'll inevitably need to report on your accomplishments for the year.

Don't be shy to take credit where due

Another important way to stay visible is to ensure you take credit when you deserve it. Too many people get shy or humble at work and let others grab the limelight.

Work is not a place for excessive humility. The forever humble, the "I'm just doing my job" kind of people are often overlooked. They're just doing their jobs, after all. If you want to be seen, you have to be visible. Don't be afraid to take credit for your accomplishments.

Ways to make sure you get credit for your work

Insist your name appears on that proposal or presentation. Don't be afraid to put your name under the title of that document. Don't be shy about answering "That was me" when someone asks about a great idea.

Also, don't let others steal your work without objection — even if you lose a battle for representation. For example, when your boss takes the credit, putting them on notice helps for the next time. If you simply let people take credit for your work, they'll never stop.

Raise your hand and help out

A final way to stay visible is to not shrink into a corner when the boss needs help. When the call comes for volunteers, raise your hand.

One of the best ways to stay on your boss's good side is to help them get their job done. The best way to do that is to do things they don't want or have time to do. Just being able to say, "Don't worry, I'll handle that," means a lot.

But it's often hard to know what they need help with. You don't do their job, so it's a challenge to understand where you can jump in. When they explicitly ask, that's where you can most certainly be useful.

Know when to volunteer and when to sit back

You don't have to raise your hand all the time. You don't have to answer your boss's every whim. You shouldn't stretch yourself beyond your limits just to be in their good graces.

But you should also not be the one who never volunteers. Your boss will notice that you never pitch in or lend a hand to your peers. That's how you stay on your boss's radar in the worst possible way.

Essentially, if you track your performance, take credit where due, and learn when to help out, you'll never be blindsided by the "five things you did last week" request because both you and your boss will already know. These are three great ways to increase visibility at work.

Chris Williams is a former VP of HR at Microsoft. He's an executive-level advisor and consultant with over 40 years of experience leading and building teams.

Read the original article on Business Insider

——————————————-
By: [email protected] (Chris Williams )
Title: An ex-Microsoft VP of HR explains 3 things you can do to stay on your boss’s radar and off the layoff list
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/how-to-stay-on-boss-radar-off-layoff-list-2025-3
Published Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2025 09:07:01 +0000

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AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know

AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know

The notion of “AI Regulation is Dead” is misleading; instead, AI governance is gaining momentum with more structured and stringent guidelines emerging worldwide. For marketers to thrive in this evolving landscape, it’s crucial to prioritize transparency, compliance, and ethical practices. This article explores how marketers can navigate new regulations and employ AI responsibly to maintain trust and competitiveness.

Key Takeaways

– AI regulation is rapidly evolving with comprehensive frameworks like the EU’s AI Act.
– Marketers must focus on transparent and ethical use of AI in campaigns.
– Adapting to regulatory changes is critical for maintaining customer trust and compliance.

The Rise of AI Governance

AI governance is swiftly advancing, with frameworks such as the EU’s AI Act setting the stage for stringent regulations. These regulations are designed to ensure AI technologies are used responsibly, safeguarding user privacy and data security. Marketers must remain vigilant and proactive in understanding these regulations, aligning their AI-driven strategies accordingly. As regulators worldwide continue to focus on AI implications, following these laws will be pivotal to navigating the global digital economy.

The Importance of Transparency in AI Campaigns

Transparency is becoming a cornerstone of AI regulation. Marketers are expected to clearly disclose data sources and algorithmic decision-making processes in their AI-driven campaigns. By being transparent, marketers can not only comply with regulations but also build trust with consumers. This includes providing customers with clarity on how their data is used and offering them control over their personal information. Such practices are not just regulatory requirements but also key to fostering long-term customer relationships.

Ethical AI: Investing in Responsible Practices

Investing in ethical AI practices is more crucial than ever. Marketers should engage in industry-wide discussions to set standards for responsible AI use. This involves creating AI systems that are fair, unbiased, and respectful of user privacy. Ethical AI practices can enhance brand reputation while preventing potential legal issues. By prioritizing ethics, marketers can contribute to sustainable and responsible AI advancements, benefiting both their businesses and the broader society.

Leveraging AI Responsibly for Enhanced Customer Experiences

AI, when used responsibly, can significantly enhance customer experiences. It offers personalized, efficient, and innovative solutions that meet consumer needs while respecting their privacy. Marketers should leverage AI tools that align with ethical standards, safeguarding personal data and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. By doing so, AI can help marketers deliver superior customer service without compromising trust and legal integrity.

Recap

As AI regulation continues to evolve, marketers must adapt by embracing transparency, compliance, and ethical practices. These steps are essential for maintaining trust and competitiveness in a digital marketplace increasingly governed by AI laws. What specific strategies will you implement to ensure transparency in your AI campaigns and align with emerging regulations?

——————————————-
By: Phil Alvarez
Title: AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know
Sourced From: www.advertisemint.com/ai-regulation-isnt-over-its-evolving/
Published Date: Sun, 23 Feb 2025 16:37:39 +0000

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