Introduction:
Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope in history, has caught the world’s attention with many aspects of his life, but one detail has sent shockwaves through his hometown of Chicago: his unwavering sports loyalties. A lifelong fan of the Chicago White Sox, Pope Leo’s roots run deep on the South Side of Chicago. In this article, we’ll dive into his favorite teams, including the Chicago White Sox, and explore how his sports passions have remained a constant part of his life despite his position as the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
Pope Leo XIV’s Chicago Sports Roots
Born as Robert Francis Prevost in Bronzeville, Chicago, Pope Leo grew up in a house with divided sports loyalties. His mother was a devout Chicago Cubs fan, hailing from the North Side, while his father was a loyal supporter of the St. Louis Cardinals. But despite the family divide, the future pope made his own decision at a young age, one that would align him with the South Side of Chicago. According to his brother, John Prevost, Pope Leo was always a White Sox fan.
“Whoever said Cubs on the radio got it wrong,” John Prevost revealed in a recent interview. “It’s Sox. He was never, ever a Cubs fan.”
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This allegiance, rooted in Chicago’s South Side, remained clear throughout his life, even after he rose to prominence in the Catholic Church. As Pope Leo XIV, his loyalty to the White Sox became widely known, sending fans and media alike into a frenzy as the debate over his sports affiliation heated up.
The Chicago Cubs and White Sox Rivalry
The Chicago Cubs were quick to try and claim the newly appointed pope as one of their own. After Pope Leo’s appointment, the Cubs tweeted a tribute, invoking the famous call from broadcaster Harry Caray: “The good Lord wants the Cubs to win!” The team hoped to gain some favor, but the South Side had the last laugh.
In an act of solidarity with their fan, the White Sox wasted no time in sending Pope Leo XIV a team jersey and cap directly to the Vatican. The team proudly embraced their connection to the pontiff, with a spokesperson saying, “Family always knows best. It sounds like Pope Leo XIV’s lifelong fandom falls a little closer to 35th and Shields.”
This friendly rivalry between the two Chicago teams added a personal and human touch to the pope’s appointment, making it even more relatable to the city’s sports fans. For many, it was a reminder that, despite his elevated position in the Church, Pope Leo XIV is still a product of his roots in Chicago.
Pope Leo XIV’s Early Life and Love for Sports
Growing up in Dolton, a suburb on Chicago’s Far Southeast Side, Pope Leo was not only passionate about baseball but also immersed in other sports. He regularly attended Mass at St. Mary of the Assumption, a place that shaped his early years and instilled values of faith and community. Even as he ascended in the Church, Pope Leo never lost touch with his South Side roots.
Despite his global duties as pope, Pope Leo has always held a deep affection for sports. In fact, during the 2005 World Series, he made a special trip to Guaranteed Rate Field, home of the White Sox, to cheer on his beloved team. This gesture further solidified his South Side loyalty, showing that no matter where he was in the world, his heart remained with his hometown.
Beyond Baseball: Pope Leo XIV’s Passion for Tennis
While Pope Leo is widely recognized for his dedication to the Catholic faith, his passion for sports extends beyond baseball. In interviews, he has expressed his love for tennis, admitting that he is a casual player. In a 2023 interview, he shared his excitement about returning to the tennis court. “Since leaving Peru, I have had few occasions to practice, so I am looking forward to getting back on the court,” Pope Leo said. “Not that this new job has left me much free time for it so far.”
Though his schedule as the pope doesn’t allow him much time for recreational activities, his love for tennis reflects his personal side, showing that he enjoys the occasional break from his rigorous duties. Pope Leo’s self-professed status as an amateur tennis enthusiast shows that, like many others, he enjoys the occasional hobby outside of his work.
Support for Soccer: Pope Leo XIV and Alianza Lima
In addition to baseball and tennis, Pope Leo XIV also has a strong connection to soccer. During his time in Peru, he became a long-time supporter of Alianza Lima, one of the country’s most popular soccer clubs. This allegiance to the soccer team further underscores Pope Leo’s broad sports interests and his deep connection to Latin American culture.
His support for Alianza Lima aligns with his tenure in Peru, where he spent many years working in the Catholic Church before being named pope. Even while managing his duties as a religious leader, Pope Leo kept his love for sports alive, particularly in regions where soccer holds a special place in the hearts of the people.
Pope Leo XIV’s Character and Intellectual Depth
While Pope Leo’s sports loyalties have captured the public’s attention, those who know him personally speak highly of his character and intellectual capabilities. Sister Barbara Reid, the president of the Catholic Theological Union, where Pope Leo once studied, praised him as an extraordinary individual with a sharp intellect and a compassionate heart. “He’s an extraordinary person with a very keen intellect, a heart as big as the whole world, especially for the people who most are on the margins,” Reid said.
This blend of intellectual depth, spiritual dedication, and personal interests in sports paints a full picture of Pope Leo XIV as a well-rounded individual who continues to connect with his roots, even as he leads the Catholic Church.
Pope Leo XIV’s Connection to Chicago
Throughout his life, Pope Leo has maintained strong ties to Chicago. Despite his position as the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics, his love for his hometown team and his passion for sports demonstrate that he remains grounded. The relationship between Pope Leo and the city of Chicago is a reminder that, no matter how high one’s position, it’s important to stay connected to one’s roots and to cherish the things that bring personal joy and connection.
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Conclusion: The Pope and His Favorite Teams
Pope Leo XIV’s sports allegiances provide a unique and humanizing glimpse into his personal life. Whether it’s cheering on the Chicago White Sox or supporting Alianza Lima, Pope Leo’s connection to sports shows that even the highest-ranking religious leaders have personal interests that shape their identities. While his papacy has brought him international fame, his love for his hometown and its teams continues to resonate with fans everywhere.
