contenders
nounUK /kənˈtɛndəz/
US /kənˈtɛndərz/
People who are trying hard to win a game or prize.
The two contenders raced to the finish line.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. People who argue strongly for or against something.
The contenders in the debate each made good points.
3. Teams or players in a sports competition hoping to win the title.
Five contenders are still in the running for the championship.
4. People who fight or struggle against a problem or difficulty.
The doctors were contenders against the spreading illness.