Crossword Genius

Played to win? (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

serenaded

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'played' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both to do with creating things as well as being past participle verbs.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for serenaded that I've seen before include "Sang or played for somebody special" , "Sung to (from below window)" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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