Pope Leo XIV Receives Autographed Jersey from Paul Konerko
Pope Leo XIV, a fervent follower of the Chicago White Sox, received a valuable gift: a jersey autographed by the team legend, Paul Konerko.
Robert Prevost, the pontiff’s birth name, proudly posed in the Vatican with the jersey signed by Konerko, an emblematic figure of the White Sox during his 16 seasons on the team.
Konerko sent the gift in July of last year, shortly after the Pope’s fondness for the Chicago team became known, a city from which he originates.
The story also reveals a curious coincidence: Konerko used the number 14 for much of his career, while Prevost is the 14th Pope to adopt the name of Leo.
The Pope’s connection to the White Sox is well known. He was caught celebrating the team’s victory in the 2005 World Series.
Furthermore, in June 2025, the Pope was seen wearing a White Sox cap in the Vatican, further strengthening his bond with the franchise.
As part of this recognition, the club announced that it will give away themed caps inspired by Pope Leo XIV during the match on August 11 against the Cincinnati Reds.
