contend (v)

There are three world-class tennis players contending for this title.
He's contending against someone with twice his experience.
The athletes will contend for the gold medal in the upcoming Olympic games.
As the political campaign heats up, candidates will contend fiercely for voters' support.
Teams from around the world will contend in the soccer tournament for a chance at the championship.
The reality show contestants will contend against each other in various challenges to win the grand prize.