Pope Leo, an avid tennis enthusiast, receives a tennis racket from Sinner during Vatican encounter
It's clear that the tennis world has found a shared love with the Catholic Church, as rising star Jannik Sinner recently paid a visit to His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. Holding a tennis racket very much like his own, Sinner presented it to the pontiff, who itself is a fervent tennis enthusiast[1][2]. Accompanied by his parents and the Italian Tennis Federation, the meeting between the two was an enjoyable affair, filled with laughter and camaraderie.
The charming Pope Leo, who became the 267th pontiff in a historically significant election earlier this month, politely declined when suggested to have a hit with the three-time grand slam winner. After admiring the ceiling lights, he humorously quipped, "Better not."
Leo previously joked that he didn't fancy going up against the world number one in a match. However, when asked about the possibility of participating in a charity match, the pope expressed interest, albeit with a caution[4]. He added, "Just don't bring Sinner."
The newspaper-friendly pope described himself as an "amateur tennis player" in a 2023 interview published by his Augustinian religious order's website[5].
Sinner, who is currently participating in the Italian Open tennis tournament, is returning after serving a three-month doping ban[3]. When questioned about the Pope's comments during a news conference, Sinner became embarrassed and buried his face in his hands, saying, "Why must you put me in such a difficult position?". However, he added that it's wonderful for tennis players to have a pope who appreciates the sport they play.
Despite no official plans being announced for a charity match, the friendly encounter between Sinner and Pope Leo has ignited anticipation about such an event. We can only wait and see if they take their excitement for tennis off the court and onto a friendly field.
The poised Pope Leo, known for his humorous and approachable demeanor, expressed a potential interest in participating in a charity tennis match, expressing a preference to avoid facing Sinner, the world number one and a rising star in the tennis world. Sinner, amid his participation in the Italian Open tennis tournament, expressed his delight at the Pope's appreciation for the sport, despite a moment of embarrassment when asked about the Pope's comments during a news conference.
