In a unique and heartwarming encounter, Pope Leo XIV, the first American to hold the papacy and a passionate tennis enthusiast, met with current World No. 1 tennis player Jannik Sinner at the Vatican. The meeting took place during Sinner’s rest day from the ongoing Italian Open, where he presented the pope with a tennis racket and ball. The 69-year-old pontiff, originally from Chicago, warmly welcomed Sinner and his parents in a private reception room of the Vatican’s auditorium.
Earlier in the week, Pope Leo had jokingly remarked that they shouldn’t invite “Sinner” to a charity match—a playful pun on the tennis star’s last name. However, any misunderstanding was put to rest as the meeting proceeded in good spirits. Sinner, speaking in Italian, expressed his honor at meeting the pope and even suggested a friendly volley. Pope Leo, glancing around the ornate room, declined with a smile, citing the delicate surroundings. He then quipped about his all-white papal robes being suitable for Wimbledon.
Sinner also discussed his tournament progress, acknowledging a difficult start but affirming that he’s now fully engaged. He faces Casper Ruud next in a high-stakes quarterfinal. Meanwhile, the president of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation, Angelo Binaghi, presented Pope Leo with an honorary membership card, praising his evident love for the sport.
The meeting concluded with photos beside the Davis Cup and the Billie Jean King Cup—trophies symbolizing recent Italian victories in both men’s and women’s tennis. The lighthearted moment reflected the pope’s genuine interest in sports, continuing a Vatican tradition of popes connecting with the athletic world—this time, with a tennis twist.
