The phrase "contender status" means being in a position to compete or have a chance at winning something, like a competition or an award. It suggests that the person or team has the ability or potential to be successful in their endeavors.
Sentences with «contender status»
Philadelphia's still a ways off from even being a playoff team, much less ever reaching contender status. (sbnation.com)
Believe It (June 5), on Detroit's rise from being one of thealltime worst teams to enjoying contender status, should give hope to KansasCity Royals fans. (si.com)
He's 1 - 3 in his last 4 and a win against a shot Diego isn't the kind of win that will give him a push to contender status again. (sbnation.com)