Stands up for the top players (9)
I believe the answer is:
champions
This could be a double definition.
'stands up' is the first definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to competing as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'top players' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?
'for the' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for champions that I've seen before include "Defends" , "best ones" , "Winners in competition" , "They win first place in competitions" , "Pinch Amos to find successful competitors" .)