Serve On SI

Jannik Sinner Gifts Tennis Racket to Pope Leo XIV in Vatican Meeting

Watch the lighthearted exchange between Jannik Sinner and Pope Leo XIV.
Pat Benson|
Jannik Sinner talked about tennis with Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican.
Jannik Sinner talked about tennis with Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican. | IMAGO / Catholicpressphoto

Tennis has enjoyed the global spotlight over the past week. Italian superstar Jannik Sinner's return from a three-month ban took place at the Italian Open (Internazionali BNL d'Italia) and at the same time as the Papal Conclave.

Even better, the world has learned Pope Leo XIV is a huge sports fan — especially tennis. So, it is only fitting that the ATP World No. 1 pays a visit to the most popular sports fan on the planet.

After defeating Francisco Cerundolo in the fourth round of the Italian Open yesterday, Sinner had today off and made a quick trip to the Vatican. Luckily for tennis fans, the historic meeting was filmed and shared on social media.

In a 43-second video filmed by the Vatican media and shared on the Italian Open's social media channels, Sinner is seen gifting a racket to the newly-elected Pope and discussing his return to action in Rome.

Leo asked if it was the same racket Sinner played with, and the three-time Grand Slam champion explained it was very similar, just a different color.

Leo looked at the racket with a smile and joked, "Wimbledon would let me play!" Sinner pulled out a tennis ball and offered to play, but Leo declined, "Here, we'll break something. Maybe best to leave it."

The meeting took place in the rooms attached to the Vatican's Paul VI Hall. Sinner was accompanied by his family and the President of the Italian Tennis Federation, Alberto Binaghi.

It was a great moment that showed how sports unite people from all walks of life. Hopefully, it will not be the last time we see Sinner and Leo talking tennis in the Vatican.

Sinner is currently 10-0 on the season with one title (the Australian Open). He faces Casper Ruud in the Italian Open quarterfinal tomorrow, Thursday, May 15.

Stay locked into Sports Illustrated's Serve On SI for all of your tennis news from the court and beyond.

More Tennis News

Emma Raducanu solidifies her coaching staff for grass court season.

Yonex releases its Paris 2025 Collection for Roland Garros.

Nick Kyrgios commits to the ATP Stuttgart 250 before Wimbledon.

Uniqlo launches the Roger Federer Collection in Paris.

Naomi Osaka voiced her frustration on social media after losing in the Italian Open.

Published
Pat Benson
PAT BENSON

Pat Benson covers professional tennis for Serve on Sports Illustrated, reporting on ATP and WTA events worldwide. From Challenger tournaments to Grand Slams, he brings readers in-depth coverage, daily recaps, and exclusive interviews with some of the biggest names in the sport. With a decade of experience in sports journalism, Pat is recognized as a trusted voice in tennis media. You can contact him at 1989patbenson@gmail.com.

Share on XFollow Pat_Benson_Jr
Home/News