Vatican City: On the occasion of the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity Pope Leo XIV brought the Jubilee of Sport to a close with a grand celebration of the Eucharist inside St. Peter’s Basilica attended by a large gathering of athletes from various disciplines age groups and nationalities. The Pope used this moment to reflect on the deeper spiritual value of sports and its potential to serve as a path to personal growth unity and holiness.

In his homily the Pope acknowledged that some might find it unusual to link the concept of the Holy Trinity with the world of sports. Yet he stressed that all noble human endeavors reflect the divine in some form and among them sports occupy a meaningful place. “Even through sport” he said “we can perceive the beauty and presence of God as it involves not only physical effort but also interior transformation and connection with others.”

Pope Leo drew attention to a simple yet powerful Italian word often shouted by fans at sports events “Dai” which means “Give.” This single word he said encapsulates the essence of true sport it is not just about winning or breaking records but about giving of oneself. Athletes give not only for personal development but also for their teams coaches loved ones fans and even their competitors. Sport becomes meaningful when it is rooted in generosity humility and shared humanity.

Citing Pope Saint John Paul II himself an avid sportsman Pope Leo reiterated that sport is not just a contest of physical ability but a celebration of life. It fosters friendship builds bridges between cultures and encourages dialogue. The real value of sport lies in its gratuity in the joy it offers and the human connections it nurtures.

The Pope also identified three pressing realities of modern society where sport can play a transformative role isolation digital alienation and an excessively competitive culture

First he addressed the crisis of isolation. In today’s world individualism often overshadows community. People are increasingly drawn into themselves leading to loneliness and lack of social concern. Sport he observed can counter this trend by emphasizing teamwork mutual respect and cooperation all of which foster a sense of togetherness and solidarity.

Secondly in a world increasingly consumed by digital devices and virtual spaces Pope Leo praised sport as a way to reconnect with reality nature and authentic relationships. While digital interaction continues to expand it can sometimes distance people from genuine human experiences. Physical activity on the other hand offers real life encounters and teaches love empathy and presence.

Lastly the Pope spoke about the obsession with winning and perfection that defines modern competitive culture. He warned that such an approach often disregards the weak or those who fail. Sports however provide a unique space where people can learn to lose with dignity and grow through their limitations. “It is in defeat” the Pope said “that we learn about our human frailty and it is in rising again that we open our hearts to hope.”

He emphasized that real champions are not flawless individuals but people who have the courage to stand up again after falling. “No one is born a champion” he declared “and no one is born a saint.” Both require commitment perseverance and daily effort.

Pope Leo celebrated the example of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati a young man who loved sports and lived his faith with passion and joy. Frassati who will be officially canonized on September 7 is a reminder that sports can be a powerful part of the journey to sainthood. His life illustrates that excellence in sport can be matched by spiritual excellence and that holiness is within reach for those who train their hearts as well as their bodies.

In closing the Pope entrusted a special mission to all athletes present and those around the world to reflect the love of the Trinity in all their pursuits and to be beacons of peace respect and fraternity. He encouraged them to place their lives under the guidance of Mary the mother of all champions in faith and to keep their eyes on the ultimate goal not merely a medal or title but the eternal prize of life with God

Through his message Pope Leo XIV reminded the world that sport is not only a stage for physical excellence but a sacred space for building virtue community and hope.