Italian tennis sensation Jannik Sinner had a special audience on Wednesday with the newly elected Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. The meeting, arranged through the Italian Tennis Federation, also included Sinner’s parents.
Pope’s tennis jokes steal the spotlight
Known for his humor and love for tennis, Pope Leo XIV couldn’t resist making a playful pun on Sinner’s last name. Earlier this week, the pontiff had told reporters he wasn’t keen on meeting the world number one—at least “not behind the net.”
When asked whether he’d consider taking part in a charity tennis match, the Pope seemed open to the idea. However, he jokingly warned, “Just don’t bring Sinner,” cleverly playing on the Catholic connotation of the player’s surname.
A pontiff with a passion for tennis
Pope Leo XIV, formerly U.S. Cardinal Robert Prevost, has openly described his fondness for tennis. In a 2023 interview with the website of his Augustinian religious order, he referred to himself as “quite the amateur tennis player.” His love for the sport remains intact, even after ascending to the papacy.
During a recent conversation with journalists, the Pope responded to a suggestion about organizing a charity tennis event. “Sure, that’s fine,” he said with a smile, after a reporter joked, “I’ll bring \[Andre] Agassi.” The Pope’s quick-witted reply? “Just don’t bring Sinner.”
Sinner reacts to papal pun with grace
Sinner, currently competing in the Italian Open taking place not far from the Vatican, couldn’t help but blush when informed about the Pope’s remarks during a press conference on Monday.
Visibly flustered, the 22-year-old covered his face with his hands and responded, “Why do you have to put me in a difficult spot?” He then added, “Obviously I heard that he played as a kid. I think it’s a good thing for us tennis players to have a pope who likes this sport that we’re playing.”
Back on court after doping suspension
The meeting comes at a crucial time for Sinner, who is returning to action after serving a three-month doping suspension. His participation in the Italian Open marks a significant step in his comeback, made even more memorable with this unique audience with the Pope.