David Popovici met with Pope Leo XIV before participating in the "Sette Colli" Trophy

David Popovici, the multiple Romanian champion, had a meeting on Thursday with Pope Leo XIV, alongside other participants in the 62nd edition of the "Sette Colli" Trophy, held in Rome. The Pope received the athletes and officials from the Italian Swimming Federation in the Clementine Hall of the Apostolic Palace.

In his speech, the pontiff emphasized the importance of sport as medicine for the body and spirit, promoting values such as commitment, solidarity, and honesty. He highlighted that sport offers opportunities for spiritual growth and contributes to peaceful meetings between peoples.

David Popovici will compete in three events at the "Sette Colli" Trophy: 50 m freestyle, 100 m freestyle, and 200 m freestyle, while Denis Popescu will participate in the 100 m butterfly and 100 m backstroke events.