Pope Leo XIV’s Passion for Tennis and Spiritual Values

Pope Leo XIV, elected last year, has gained attention not only for his religious leadership but also for his love of tennis. His enthusiasm for the sport came to light during an audience with top-ranked tennis player Jannik Sinner.

Despite his busy schedule, Leo sets aside time each week to play tennis. This commitment aligns with his belief in the Augustinian principles of physical activity and spiritual growth. The Rule of St. Augustine emphasizes the importance of cultivating good habits.

The Rev. Rob Hagan, Prior of the Augustinian Province of St. Thomas of Villanova, and team chaplain at Villanova University, remarked on Leo’s adherence to this routine. Hagan said that Leo’s fidelity to St. Augustine was also evident during a recent pilgrimage to the archaeological sites in Algeria. Here, the 5th-century theologian and philosopher lived, died, and wrote significant works.

The pope spends Mondays and Tuesdays at the papal retreat in Castel Gandolfo. He engages in tennis, swimming, and horseback riding with his secretary, Monsignor Edgard Iván Rimaycuna Inga. Reflecting on his skill, Leo, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, mentioned his amateur tennis experience during an interview with the Augustinian Order.

Recently, Leo shared a video message promoting sports as a medium for peace, cultural dialogue, and personal growth. He stated, “In life, as in the game, no one is saved alone. We need others to grow, to learn respect, to overcome our limits, and to celebrate together the victories we achieve.”

We ask that sport may always be a school of fraternity, not of empty rivalry, a space of encounter, not exclusion.

Renowned player Marin Cilic expressed admiration for the pope’s connection to tennis, emphasizing the beauty and enjoyment of playing stress-free matches.

Tennis, while physically demanding, also presents mental challenges. Success requires focus and discipline, avoiding unforced errors, and building good habits. Hagan emphasized the need for mental resilience and full-body coordination in tennis.

For the 70-year-old pope, such exercise supports his demanding role. His daily duties include conducting prayer services, public engagements, and international trips. In April, Leo traveled over 11,000 miles on a tour of Africa, highlighting the physical demands of his role.

Before becoming pope, Leo routinely worked out to maintain his health. His training regimen included cardiovascular exercises and posture improvement, guided by his personal trainer Valerio Masella.

Hagan highlighted Leo’s role in bringing Augustinian values to a broader audience. These principles, embodied by Leo and promoted at Villanova University, encourage individuals to strive for self-improvement in mind, body, and spirit. Quoting Augustine, Hagan stated, “Do not be content with what you are if you want to become what you are not yet. For where you’ve grown pleased with yourself, there you shall remain.”

Associated Press writer Nicole Winfield contributed to this report.

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