Top-ranked Jannik Sinner passed a big test in his return from a three-month doping ban, beating accomplished clay-court player Francisco Cerundolo 7-6 (2), 6-3 on Tuesday to reach the Italian Open quarterfinals.

His comeback continues today against Argentine player Francisco Cerundolo. But following his latest victory, Sinner also had to address comments made by the new pope, Leo (Prevost) XIV. He met with journalists on Monday and ended the discussion with a talk about tennis.

The Italian remains the world No 1 despite three months off, but whether he can reassert his grip on top spot on his return to competitive action is another story

Jannik Sinner is in his singles era. Speaking to reporters Monday after completing a three-month doping ban ahead of the Italian Open, the three-time Grand Slam champion — who was involved with fellow tennis pro Anna Kalinskaya in 2024 — said he is “not in a relationship” after being linked to Russian model Lara Leito in April.