Context:

High-profile tennis players Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek plan to visit the Vatican to witness the papal conclave while they are in Rome for the Italian Open. Gauff, who recently won the 2023 U.S. Open, expressed interest in the historic nature of the event despite not being Catholic, while Swiatek, a three-time Rome champion, is eager to experience the conclave depending on logistical possibilities. The conclave, which begins Wednesday, involves the burning of ballots, with black smoke indicating no decision and white smoke signaling the election of a new pope. Gauff, a devout Christian, often discusses her faith in public, emphasizing the importance of personal belief without imposing it on others. Both athletes are in Rome for the Italian Open, which will run until May 18, coinciding with the conclave's proceedings.

Dive Deeper:

• Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek, both in Rome for the Italian Open, have expressed interest in attending the papal conclave at the Vatican if their schedules allow. Gauff is intrigued by the historic aspect of the event, particularly the smoke signals used to indicate the election of a new pope.

• The conclave involves a process where cardinals burn ballots, with black smoke indicating no decision and white smoke signaling a new pope has been chosen and accepted the position. This tradition is a significant religious and cultural event in the Catholic Church.

• Gauff, who is not Catholic but a devout Christian, won the 2023 U.S. Open and frequently discusses her faith, emphasizing the personal importance of belief while advocating for freedom of expression without imposing on others' beliefs.

• Swiatek, a three-time champion in Rome from Poland, is interested in the conclave for the unique experience it offers but is aware of the logistical challenges due to the unpredictable duration of the event.

• The Italian Open, where both athletes are competing, runs concurrently with the papal conclave, lasting until May 18, making it a busy time in Rome for both tennis and religious events.

• Gauff's approach to her faith highlights her belief in sharing personal experiences that might inspire others while maintaining respect for diverse opinions and beliefs, illustrating her broader perspective on religious expression.

• The athletes' potential visit to the Vatican underscores the intersection of sports, culture, and religion, highlighting how global events like the papal conclave capture the attention of individuals from various backgrounds and belief systems.