Context:

Pope Leo XIV, originally Robert Prevost, has garnered attention for his American sports affiliations, being the first Pope from the U.S. A devoted Chicago White Sox fan, he was notably seen attending Game 1 of the 2005 World Series, where the White Sox claimed victory. His sports interests also extend to basketball, particularly following the New York Knicks due to their connection with his alma mater, Villanova University. Ascending the ranks in the Catholic Church, Leo XIV was appointed as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and later elevated to Cardinal by Pope Francis, aligning closely with Francis' progressive teachings. Prior to his Vatican appointment, he lived in Peru, serving as vice president of the Peruvian Bishops’ Conference, which influenced his ecclesiastical career path.

Dive Deeper:

• Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Prevost, is the first Pope from the U.S., with a notable background in American sports, specifically as a Chicago White Sox enthusiast. His love for the team was highlighted when footage surfaced of him attending the 2005 World Series, where the White Sox triumphed in a four-game sweep.

• Prevost's sports interests extend beyond baseball; he has ties to Villanova University and follows the New York Knicks, a team featuring several former Villanova players. This connection was highlighted by Reverend Robert P. Hagan, a friend of Prevost and a chaplain at Villanova.

• In the Catholic Church, Leo XIV's career advanced significantly under Pope Francis, who appointed him as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in 2023, a critical position for overseeing global bishop nominations. He was made a Cardinal later that year.

• Aligning with Pope Francis' teachings, Leo XIV is recognized for his commitment to environmental issues, helping the poor and migrants, and advocating for a more inclusive Catholic Church.

• Before his Vatican roles, Leo XIV lived in Peru and became a Peruvian citizen in 2015. He played a significant role in the Peruvian Bishops’ Conference as vice president, which likely contributed to his later appointment as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.