Pope Leo XIV met with tennis star Jannik Sinner at the Vatican. Sinner, the world's top-ranked player, gifted the Pope a tennis racket. The Pope humorously responded, referencing Wimbledon's dress code and the challenges of playing indoors. The meeting, which included the president of the Italian Tennis Federation, was widely covered by international media. Sinner expressed openness to playing tennis with the Pope in the future.
22 days ago
Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected pontiff, met with Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner at the Vatican on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 3 4. The meeting took place during Sinner's off day at the Italian Open 1.
Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, is an avid tennis fan and player 1. He expressed his enthusiasm for the sport, joking about playing in his white cassock at Wimbledon 3 4. Sinner acknowledged that it was "a good thing for us tennis players" that the new Pope enjoys the sport 1 3 4.
Sinner presented Pope Leo XIV with a tennis racket and ball 1 3 4. He jokingly suggested a quick volley, but the Pope declined, quipping, "Here we'll break something. Best not to!" 1 3 4. The Pope also received an honorary federation card from the head of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation 1.
The Pope's lighthearted comment about potentially breaking something resonated with parents 2. Aleteia highlighted how this moment demonstrated the Pope's understanding of family life and his ability to connect with people through humor 2. The Pope had previously joked about not inviting Sinner to play, referencing the English meaning of Sinner's last name 1 3 4.
Sinner, currently ranked No. 1 in the world, is competing in the Italian Open 3 4. He is attempting to become the first Italian man to win the Rome title since 1976 1. Sinner's participation in the tournament marks his return after a three-month ban for accidental doping contamination 1.
How does the Church view sports and recreation?
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The Catholic Church acknowledges the importance of sports and recreation for human development and well-being . It sees sports as a valuable tool for fostering virtues, promoting dialogue, and building a more fraternal and united world .
The Church seeks to contribute to the formation of youth through sports, providing an environment for human and spiritual growth . Catholic sports initiatives aim at the integral development of the person, helping young people develop their athletic potential without obscuring human qualities and Christian virtues .