Robert Francis Prevost, now officially Pope Leo XIV, was elected in record time by the Vatican, less than 24 hours after the conclave began. As the world awaited the successor to Pope Francis, the swift announcement of Prevost introduced not just a new Pontiff, but potentially a renewed spotlight on a beloved sport.
When Pope Francis revealed his passion for soccer, and his lifelong support for Argentine club San Lorenzo, it instantly connected him with millions of fans around the world. His devotion to the sport became a symbol of his down-to-earth nature throughout his years as Supreme Pontiff.
Now, with Pope Leo XIV taking the helm, a different sport could rise to prominence. The newly appointed Pontiff, Robert Prevost, recently shared his love for a new favorite pastime and expressed a desire to play it again someday. After spending many years in Peru as Archbishop Emeritus of Chiclayo, this personal detail adds a fresh chapter to the relationship between sports and the papacy.
In an interview, Pope Leo XIV shared his passion for tennis, expressing his hopes of returning to the sport. “I consider myself a great tennis fan,” the newly elected Pope told in an interview two years ago, according to La Nacion (Argentina). “Since I left Peru, I’ve had few opportunities to practice, so I’m looking forward to getting back on the courts.”
The newly elected Pontiff, Pope Leo XIV is seen for the first time from the Vatican balcony on May 8, 2025 in Vatican City, Vatican. Cardinal Robert Prevost will be known as Pope Leo XIV.
Italian Open surprises fans by announcing Pope Leo XIV during match
Italy, a nation deeply rooted in Catholic tradition, is currently hosting the prestigious Italian Open. In a surprising moment during one of the matches, organizers took the opportunity to announce the election of Pope Leo XIV, who succeeds Pope Francis as the new Supreme Pontiff.
see also
Alexandra Eala gets unexpected advice from opponent after tough loss at Italian Open
“There is big news in Italy today, there’s a new Pope,” said the match commentators. “Robert Prevost has been announced as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American Pope in the history of the Catholic Church.” His image was displayed on the stadium’s big screen as the announcement echoed through the stands.
The tennis world now turns its attention to Pope Leo XIV’s potential connection to the sport. With many top players competing at the tournament, fans are curious to learn who his all-time favorite might be, and whether the new Pope could make an appearance at major tennis events in the future.
Another Pope who shared a passion for sports
In addition to Pope Francis and the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, there was another Supreme Pontiff who shared a deep love for soccer. Pope John Paul II was widely recognized as a devoted fan of the sport in his native Poland. According to multiple reports, he even enjoyed playing as a goalkeeper during his youth.
