The ball is in your court
It's your decision or responsibility to take action.

Raise the bar
To set a higher standard or level of expectation.

Neck and neck
Very close or equal in a race or competition.

Cut-throat competition
Fierce or ruthless competition.

Ahead of the pack
Leading or excelling in a competitive situation.

Go the extra mile
To make an extra effort to achieve something.

Hit the ground running
To begin something energetically and successfully.

Throw in the towel
To give up or admit defeat in a competition.

Level playing field
A situation where everyone has an equal chance.

Pull ahead
To take the lead in a race or competition.

Beat someone to the punch
To act faster than someone else in a competitive situation.

Second wind
Gaining new energy after feeling tired in a competition.

Bite the bullet
To face a difficult or competitive situation bravely.

Throw down the gauntlet
To challenge someone to a competition or confrontation.

Win by a landslide
To win a competition by a large margin.

In the driver's seat
To be in control or in a leading position in a competition.

Step up your game
To improve your performance in order to be more competitive.

Take the bull by the horns
To tackle a competitive or difficult situation directly.

Play your cards right
To make smart decisions in a competitive situation.

Throw someone off their game
To distract or disturb someone's competitive performance.