Pope Leo XIV’s Passion for Tennis and Augustinian Values

Pope Leo XIV, elected last year, is known for his love of tennis. His passion became widely acknowledged when he met with top-ranked player Jannik Sinner. Despite his demanding schedule, Leo aims to play tennis weekly, aligning this with his Augustinian devotion to physical and spiritual practices. The Rule of St. Augustine emphasizes the importance of good habits.

The Rev. Rob Hagan, the Prior of the Augustinian Province of St. Thomas of Villanova, highlighted Leo’s dedication to maintaining a routine reflecting these values. The pope’s commitment was evident when he visited the historical ruins in Algeria, where St. Augustine lived, during his Africa trip in April. Hagan noted Leo’s focus on enhancing one’s inner life, a vital yet often overlooked Augustinian principle, especially in today’s noisy world.

Pope Leo spends his Mondays and Tuesdays at the papal retreat in Castel Gandolfo, outside Rome. There, he enjoys tennis with his secretary, Monsignor Edgard Iván Rimaycuna Inga, and engages in swimming and horseback riding. Before his papacy, then-Cardinal Robert Prevost shared his enthusiasm for tennis, despite limited practice while in Peru. He expressed a desire to return to the sport after assuming a key Vatican role.

On a recent Tuesday, Leo released a message promoting sports as a vehicle for peace, cultural dialogue, and personal growth. “In life, as in the game, no one is saved alone,” Leo emphasized, underscoring the importance of community in achieving success and celebrating victories. He advocated for sport as a means of brotherhood, opposing exclusion and rivalry.

Croatian player Marin Cilic praised Leo’s love for tennis, considering it a beautiful game best enjoyed without competitive pressures. Tennis requires mental focus, discipline, and coordination, making it ideal for Leo’s demanding role. In April, Leo traveled about 11,000 miles on 18 flights during a busy 11-day African tour.

Rev. Hagan remarked on Leo’s strenuous schedule, emphasizing the physical demands of spiritual leadership. Leo’s previous fitness regime included regular workouts focused on posture and cardiovascular health. Trainer Valerio Masella noted his routines suited those in their 50s, with hourlong sessions on the treadmill and bike.

Hagan pointed out that Pope Leo’s tenure has increased awareness of St. Augustine and the Augustinian values he champions. These principles encourage being the best version of oneself, as echoed in a quote from St. Augustine: “Do not be content with what you are if you want to become what you are not yet.” This guidance, shared with Villanova teams, aims to foster growth beyond winning games or matches.

Associated Press writer Nicole Winfield in Vatican City contributed to this report.