Chicago Cubs’ Miguel Amaya (9), right, fives Dansby Swanson after Amaya hit a two-run home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the San Francisco Gaints, Thursday, May 6, 2025 (AP Photo)
America’s first pope is bringing more than just faith to the global stage—he’s reviving sports dreams too.
Chicago-native Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost, made history as the first American elected to the papacy. His journey from a South Side neighborhood to the Vatican has also turned him into an unexpected symbol of sports hope for Chicago and New York fans alike.
White Sox, Not Cubs – Chicago’s Baseball Debate Ends
As soon as the white smoke rose from the Vatican, the sports world went digging for Pope Leo XIV’s allegiances. The Chicago Cubs quickly celebrated with a bold social media post, proudly labeling him as one of their own.
But not so fast.
In an interview with WGN-TV, the pope’s brother, John Prevost, cleared the air.
“He was never ever a Cubs fan,” John said. “He was always a Sox fan.”
Apparently, the confusion started because their mother’s family supported the Cubs. But Pope Leo XIV stood firmly with the South Side’s White Sox.
White Sox Celebrate a Heavenly Fan
The White Sox quickly jumped in with their own celebratory message. They shared a clip from the WGN interview and proudly lit up the Rate Field videoboard with the words:
HEY CHICAGO, HE’S A SOX FAN!
The team confirmed that a custom White Sox jersey and cap were already headed to Rome.
“Some things are bigger than baseball,” said the team in a statement. “But we’re proud to see a Sox fan in the Vatican.”
Fans, however, took it a step further. Many joked about the pope’s ability to finally convince team owner Jerry Reinsdorf to sell the struggling franchise.
Chicago Bears Fans Hope for Divine Intervention
White Sox fans weren’t the only ones reacting. Bears supporters also chimed in with classic Chicago humor.
One fan posted, “Chicago developed a pope before the Bears developed a quarterback.”
Another joked, “We now have a direct line to God.”
The most popular reference came from a Bears heartbreak moment—the infamous 52-yard Hail Mary by the Commanders. “No more being on the wrong side of Hail Marys,” a fan declared.
Even Bears quarterback Caleb Williams got in on the fun, posting on X:
“Daaaaaa Pope.”
Knicks Fans Find Faith in Villanova Connection
As New Yorkers watched the Knicks erase back-to-back 20-point deficits in the playoffs, a new theory emerged: divine help from Pope Leo XIV.
The new pope is a Villanova University alumnus, having graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 1977. Today, three key Knicks players—Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo—are former Villanova Wildcats.
Fans quickly photoshopped the four together and shared the image widely, sparking talk of a spiritual edge.
The Knicks haven’t claimed an NBA title since 1973. But now, with their Villanova core and a newly elected pope from the same university, hopes are high.
Faith, Fandom, and Fun—Pope Leo XIV Inspires Both Sides
In just days, Pope Leo XIV has become a unique blend of spiritual leader and sports symbol. Whether you cheer for the Sox or the Knicks, Chicago or New York, there’s one shared sentiment:
Fans are hoping the pope’s blessings extend beyond Rome—and all the way to the playoffs.
