Rome. The election of Pope Leo XIV has generated an impact that transcends the religious, reaching the sports field, especially for the fans of the Chicago White Sox and the New York Knicks.
Robert Prevost, the new leader of the Catholic Church, born in Chicago and a graduate of Villanova University, has aroused the interest of sports fans after his election.
Although it was initially speculated that he was a Cubs fan, his brother John Prevost clarified that the Pope is a Chicago White Sox fan, according to an interview with WGN-TV. The confusion could be due to some family members’ fondness for the Cubs.
He was never a Cubs fan, he was always a White Sox fan.
John Prevost
The White Sox celebrated the news by sharing the interview video and posting a message of support on social media. In addition, they announced the sending of a personalized jersey and an official cap to the Vatican.
Some things are bigger than baseball, and in this case, we are happy to have a White Sox fan represented at the Vatican.
White Sox Statement
Bears fans, another Chicago team, also reacted with humor, joking about the connection to the new Pope.
In New York, Knicks fans found a special connection with the new pontiff. Leo XIV shares a university with Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo, key players on the New York team who are standing out in the NBA playoffs.
On social media, an edited image of the Pope with the Knicks players circulated, symbolizing the fans’ hope.
With the White Sox in a difficult situation and the Knicks seeking their first title since 1973, sports fans joke that “if there’s a pope in Rome supporting your team, anything is possible.”
