Pope Leo XIV Welcomes World No. 1 Jannik Sinner in Cheerful Vatican Meeting

Pope Leo XIV, an enthusiastic follower of tennis, met with world number one Jannik Sinner in a cheerful private audience at the Vatican on Wednesday, marking a rare and uplifting encounter between sport and faith.

Sinner, currently participating in the Italian Open in Rome, arrived at the Vatican with his parents to meet the newly elected pontiff.

As seen in a video released by Vatican News, the 23-year-old Italian tennis star presented Pope Leo with a tennis racket and a ball. With a smile, Sinner invited the Pope to play, prompting a lighthearted response. “We might break something here,” joked the pontiff. “Better not!”

Known for his down-to-earth personality and passion for tennis, Pope Leo XIV had earlier made a humorous remark during a press interaction, saying, “Just don’t bring Sinner,” when asked whether he would consider playing in a charity tennis match — a witty reference to both Sinner’s surname and his skill on the court.

This meeting not only showcased Pope Leo XIV’s openness to youth and sports culture but also highlighted his personal touch as he continues to shape his papacy with moments that resonate beyond traditional religious circles.

As the first American-born pope, Leo XIV has embraced a fresh, engaging approach to leadership. His encounter with Sinner is being hailed as an inspiring moment for many young Catholics and tennis fans around the world.