rocky road (to something)
The difficult, troubled, or uneven journey or development (to some status, position, or result). In the interview, she discusses her childhood, her inspirations, and the rocky road to presidency. The film's rocky road leading to its release has been the subject of much speculation and concern from fans.
the rocky road to —
a difficult progression to something. 2001 Star So far A1 haven't put a foot wrong on the rocky road to superstardom.