Vatican City has a new Pope—and perhaps its most tennis-enthusiastic leader yet. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, assumed the papacy on May 8 and, along with spiritual duties, is reviving interest in an unusual feature of Vatican life: a hidden tennis court nestled within the city’s walls.
A Court Above the City
Tucked behind the imposing 39-foot-high Vatican walls lies an unexpected relic of recreation: a red clay tennis court. Shielded from public view and elevated above street level, this court is rarely noticed—except by those who know exactly where to look near the Vatican Museum entrance. A discreet netted fence stands sentinel above the ancient walls, not for papal protection, but to ensure wayward shots don’t endanger passersby below.
Now under Pope Leo XIV’s watch, the court may experience renewed attention. A lifelong lover of tennis, Pope Leo has spoken previously about his passion for the game. In a 2023 interview, he described himself as a dedicated amateur who hoped to return to playing after years abroad, particularly during his time in Peru.
From Chicago to the Clay
Born in the United States, Pope Leo XIV brings a unique background to the papacy, including a love for baseball’s Chicago White Sox and, notably, a devotion to tennis. Though not widely known beyond ecclesiastical circles prior to his election, the new Pope’s sporting interests have quickly captured public imagination.
His love for tennis, while charming, also presents a humorous set of questions: Should one go full throttle in a match against the Pope? What happens if you accidentally hit a winner past him—or worse, hit him?
A Lost Tradition of Vatican Tennis
While it may surprise some, tennis has a quirky but documented history within Vatican walls. Following a court renovation in the 1970s, tennis enjoyed a short-lived boom among clergy and Vatican staff. A “Tournament of Friendship” even emerged, with Cardinals, Swiss Guards, and Vatican employees competing. Eventually, younger participants from Vatican departments and their families joined in, bringing stiffer competition but less longevity—the tournament faded before being briefly revived in 2008 by museum staff.
Today, the court is largely unused, but Pope Leo may be just the person to change that. With his ascension, the Vatican’s recreational spaces—and their role in fostering community among its residents—could see fresh attention.
Tennis Meets Theology
As Pope Leo XIV begins his spiritual leadership of over a billion Catholics worldwide, he also steps into a rare dual role—as symbolic head of a church and casual ambassador for sport. Tennis stars like Iga Świątek and Emma Raducanu have already expressed curiosity and support, highlighting how the Pope’s unique interests are resonating beyond religious circles.
Whether or not he competes in Vatican tournaments or organizes a clergy doubles league, one thing is clear: the court is ready, the Pope is willing, and tennis in the Vatican may be in for a divine revival.
IMAGE – Getty Images
