Miguel Jorge
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Alba Mora
WriterAn established tech journalist, I entered the world of consumer tech by chance in 2018. In my writing and translating career, I've also covered a diverse range of topics, including entertainment, travel, science, and the economy.
With the election of Pope Leo XIV, a series of frequently recurring questions arise about the new head of the Catholic Church. Every detail about Robert Francis Prevost’s life becomes newsworthy. Pope Francis was known to be a soccer enthusiast, while the new pontiff is a tennis fan.
In fact, with Pope Leo, the Church has the opportunity to revive an ancient tradition in one of the lesser-known and more secretive areas of the Vatican: tennis matches.
An American in Peru. Although he was born in Chicago, the new pope is celebrated in Chiclayo, a city in Northern Peru. He made a significant impact during nearly four decades of pastoral service. He arrived in Peru in 1985 as a young missionary serving in one of the country’s most humble regions.
Not only did Pope Leo dedicate himself to the spiritual needs of the community, but he also became deeply integrated into local life. In fact, he obtained Peruvian citizenship in 2015 when he was appointed bishop of Chiclayo.
The people of Chiclayo don’t remember him for his ornate vestments or formal protocols. Rather, they fondly recall him driving a white van through flooded streets during the rainy season to distribute food. They say he used to carry oxygen tanks during the pandemic and visit parishioners on foot without a driver or entourage.
It was in Chiclayo that Pope Leo found one of his great hobbies: tennis. It was common to see him playing at the monastery of Santo Toribio de Mogrovejo.
At his new residence, there’s also a tennis court waiting for him.
The Vatican racket. The Athletic recently reported on a little-known detail at the heart of the Vatican. There’s a tennis court discreetly located behind the walls of the world’s smallest state.
Although the court isn’t visible from the street, a protective net can be seen peeking over the walls near the Vatican Museum. Hidden away in the northern corner of the papal enclave, this red tennis court has served as a recreational space for cardinals. Members of the Swiss Guard, Vatican employees, and their children also play tennis there.
The tradition. Interestingly, satellite images and archives from the Pontifical Council for the Laity reveal a very active history for this sporting venue. In its golden age in the 1970s, it hosted tournaments that included future cardinals such as Giovanni Battista Re and Jesuit Roberto Tucci.
However, interest in the court declined when lay employees and their children, who were often more agile than the prelates, were permitted to use it. The tournaments faded away until a modest revival in 2008. The cardinals were likely not fond of losing, even on the tennis court.
Pope Leo, a tennis fan. The new Catholic pontiff is breaking the mold of traditional solemnity by revealing himself as an enthusiastic tennis fan. In an interview with the Order of St. Augustine’s website, he described himself as “quite the amateur tennis player.” He mentioned that after his missionary work in Peru, he had few opportunities to play, but he’s looking forward to “getting back on the court.”
The new Pope also joked about his loyalty to the Chicago White Sox baseball team, comparing it to a commitment to temperance and perseverance. He also denied rumors suggesting he supports Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz, reassuring Italian fans who are devoted to Jannik Sinner.
Despite embodying one of the most revered figures on the planet, his passion for tennis reveals a relatable and modern aspect of his personality. It clearly contrasts with the formalities of the Vatican.
Secrets. This may seem like a minor anecdote. However, The Athletic highlighted that discovering the sporting side of the pontiff and the existence of a tennis court within the Vatican provides an unexpected glimpse into his everyday papal life.
The Vatican court remains largely unknown even to members of the Italian Tennis Federation and some clergy. This shows that the Vatican continues to safeguard secrets and traditions that aren’t visible to the public. Moreover, no members of the Swiss Guard currently play tennis, which could make it easier for the pope to organize a friendly tournament.
Image | Martti Salmi