Game, Set, Faith: Tennis Star Gifts Racket to Pope Leo XIV During Italian Open Break

VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV had an exciting meeting with tennis star Jannik Sinner. The top-ranked player visited the Vatican, bringing along a tennis racket and a suggestion for a friendly game on his day off from the Italian Open.

The pope, who is an enthusiastic tennis fan and player, had earlier made a playful comment about not inviting Sinner to play, referencing the humorous connotation of Sinner’s last name. But all was forgiven by the time their meeting occurred.

“It’s an honor,” Sinner expressed in Italian, as he arrived with his parents. He offered the pope his racket and a ball, suggesting they have a quick volley. But Leo, eyeing the historic room filled with antiques, decided against it. “Better not,” he said, adding a light remark about his white cassock being perfect for Wimbledon.

Sinner, who is coming off a three-month ban for doping—found to be due to accidental contamination—has returned to competitive play with a quarterfinal match scheduled. He aims to become the first Italian man to win the Rome title since Adriano Panatta in 1976.

During their meeting, Angelo Binaghi, head of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation, presented the pope with an honorary federation card. “Leo’s passion for our sport fills us with pride,” Binaghi said. He expressed hope for another meeting, perhaps on a tennis court.

Photos captured the moment near the Davis Cup trophy, a prize Sinner helped Italy win for the second consecutive time last year. The Billie Jean King Cup trophy, awarded to Italy in 2024, was also on display, showcasing Italy’s growing prominence in women’s tennis.

Earlier in the week, Sinner commented on how great it was for tennis that the new pope enjoys the game. In addition to tennis, the pope is also a fan of the Chicago White Sox baseball team. His predecessor, Pope Francis, famously supported the San Lorenzo soccer club from Buenos Aires.

This light-hearted event reflects a growing trend where pop culture and sports intersect with significant figures in society. Do you think such casual encounters help bridge the gap between traditional institutions and modern interests?

For more insights on the intersection of sports and culture, you might check out discussions from sources like The Atlantic and NPR.

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Jannik Sinner, Pope Leo XIV, Tennis, Billie Jean King, Italy, General news, Adriano Panatta, Sports, World news, Angelo Binaghi, Religion, Casper Ruud, Rome, World News