Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, is not just the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church; he’s also a dedicated sports enthusiast. His Chicago upbringing and time spent in Rome have influenced his diverse sports interests. From baseball and basketball to soccer and tennis, Pope Leo’s passion for athletics is evident. This unique aspect of his personality has endeared him to fans worldwide, blending his religious duties with a relatable human touch. Whether it’s cheering for his favorite teams or engaging in friendly sports banter, Pope Leo’s enthusiasm for sports brings a fresh perspective to the papacy.
Chicago White Sox: A Lifelong Allegiance
Pope Leo’s devotion to the Chicago White Sox is well-documented. He attended Game 1 of the 2005 World Series, where the White Sox clinched a victory against the Houston Astros. This moment was captured on the FOX broadcast, highlighting his genuine fandom. His brother, John Prevost, confirmed that Pope Leo has always been a Sox fan, dispelling earlier rumors of Cubs allegiance. The White Sox honored him with a graphic installation at Guaranteed Rate Field, marking the exact seat he occupied during that memorable game. Fans have embraced this connection, often dressing in papal-themed attire at games. The team even sent a jersey and hat to the Vatican, celebrating their unique bond with the Pope. This deep-rooted support showcases Pope Leo’s unwavering loyalty to his hometown team.
Chicago Bears: Embracing the Gridiron
While his baseball preferences are clear, Pope Leo’s support for the Chicago Bears has also come to light. During a visit to the Vatican, U.S. Vice President JD Vance presented him with a personalized Bears jersey, acknowledging his Chicago roots. Pope Leo reportedly remarked that it was a “good choice,” hinting at his appreciation for the team. Though not as prominently featured as his White Sox fandom, this gesture indicates a fondness for the Bears. His connection to Chicago’s sports culture extends beyond baseball, encompassing the city’s football legacy. This multifaceted support reflects his broad interest in sports and his deep ties to his hometown.
Villanova Wildcats: A Collegiate Connection
Pope Leo’s academic background includes time at Villanova University, where he developed a connection to the Wildcats basketball team. Following their dramatic win over North Carolina in the 2016 national championship game, he acknowledged the victory, celebrating the team’s achievement. Former Villanova coach Jay Wright congratulated Pope Leo on his papacy, highlighting the shared pride between the university and the Pope. Villanova University also released a statement celebrating his election, emphasizing the significance of having an alumnus ascend to the papacy. This connection underscores Pope Leo’s enduring bond with his alma mater and its athletic programs. His support for the Wildcats reflects his appreciation for collegiate sports and the values they represent.
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AS Roma: A Roman Affinity
Living in Rome, Pope Leo has expressed support for AS Roma, one of the city’s prominent football clubs. He was seen engaging with fans, using the phrase “Forza Roma!” to show his enthusiasm. Father Joseph Farrell, a senior member of his religious order, confirmed that Pope Leo is an avid supporter of the team. AS Roma acknowledged his support by publicly congratulating him upon his election. This connection illustrates Pope Leo’s integration into Roman culture and his appreciation for the city’s football heritage. His support for AS Roma adds an international dimension to his sports fandom, bridging his American roots with his current residence.
New York Knicks: Following the ‘Nova Knicks’
Pope Leo’s interest in basketball extends to the NBA, particularly the New York Knicks. This interest is linked to the presence of former Villanova players on the Knicks roster, including Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo. Reverend Robert P. Hagan, a friend and chaplain at Villanova University, noted that Pope Leo enjoys watching the Knicks, especially due to the Villanova alumni. This connection highlights his continued support for his alma mater’s athletes as they progress in their professional careers. His engagement with the Knicks showcases his broader appreciation for basketball and the success of players he has followed since their college days.
Tennis and Personal Fitness: Staying Active
Beyond team sports, Pope Leo maintains an active lifestyle through personal fitness activities like tennis. He regularly plays tennis at the Augustinian headquarters near St. Peter’s Square, demonstrating his commitment to staying physically active. This routine reflects his belief in the importance of health and well-being. His engagement in sports extends beyond spectating, encompassing personal participation. This aspect of his life adds another layer to his multifaceted personality, blending spiritual leadership with a dedication to physical fitness.
A Pope with Everyday Passions
Despite leading over a billion Catholics, Pope Leo XIV enjoys a life full of familiar, everyday hobbies and interests. He regularly plays word games like Wordle and Words With Friends with his brothers. These games show his love for puzzles and mental challenges. In a 2023 interview, he called himself “quite the amateur tennis player.” He said he looked forward to getting back on the court after his time in Peru. He also works out regularly at the Omega gym in Rome. His fitness routine includes both strength training and aerobic exercises.
Outside of sports, Pope Leo enjoys watching movies. He watched the film Conclave right before joining the real papal conclave. His brother, John Prevost, said these hobbies help him relax and stay balanced. Pope Leo also speaks five languages: English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese. This reflects his global outlook and broad range of interests. These relatable habits show the down-to-earth side of Pope Leo. They help people around the world see him as approachable and real.
Conclusion: A Pope for the People
Pope Leo’s diverse sports fandom paints a picture of a relatable and multifaceted individual. His support for teams across different sports and regions reflects his personal journey and connections. From his Chicago roots to his life in Rome, his sports interests bridge cultures and communities. This unique aspect of his identity resonates with fans worldwide, making him a Pope who connects with people on multiple levels. His passion for sports adds a human touch to his papacy, illustrating that even spiritual leaders can share in the joys of athletic competition.
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