Tennis world number one Jannik Sinner had a memorable off-court moment on Wednesday as he met newly elected Pope Leo XIV during a special visit to the Vatican.

The 23-year-old Italian star, who is currently competing in the Italian Open, was invited to the Apostolic Palace just days after returning to the court following a three-month doping suspension.

Sinner, accompanied by his family and representatives from the Italian Tennis Federation, was warmly received by Pope Leo XIV — formerly U.S. Cardinal Robert Prevost — who is known for his passion for tennis.

During the lighthearted meeting, Sinner gifted the pontiff one of his rackets and playfully asked, “Would you like to play a bit?” The 69-year-old Pope smiled and glanced at the high ceilings before replying with a laugh, “Better not.”

The Pope has previously spoken about his love for the sport, once describing himself as “quite the amateur tennis player” in a 2023 interview. His election as leader of the Catholic Church has drawn attention not only for his American roots but also for his down-to-earth personality and sporting interests.

Sinner, a national hero in Italy, is enjoying a strong return at the Italian Open in Rome, reaching the quarter-finals in his first tournament back. He is set to face Norway’s Casper Ruud in the last eight on Thursday, just a short distance from the Vatican.

The meeting between Sinner and Pope Leo XIV marked a symbolic and uplifting moment, blending faith, sport, and national pride — and highlighting the tennis star’s continued role as one of Italy’s most beloved ambassadors.

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