The phrase "perennial contender" means that someone or something consistently and repeatedly competes and has a high chance of winning or being successful. Full definition
In doing so, they caught the attention of some of the world's most polarizing figures, from the popular (Mick Jagger, arguably the most recognizable man on the planet at the time) to the underground (Andy Warhol, perennial contender for the title of «weirdest guy ever»). (thecriticalcritics.com)
The Senators hoped it would be a springboard to becoming perennial contenders. (si.com)
Similarly, Davis and St. Francis have been perennial contenders on the girls» side. (sportstarsmag.com)