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Pope Leo’s Chicago Roots and Sports Fandom Capture Global Attention

The first U.S.-born pope, Robert Prevost, blends his American upbringing with a commitment to Francis-era reforms as his papal journey begins.

Robert Prevost, left, and his brothers John and Louis pose for a photo with their mother in this undated photo.
John Prevost points to an old photo of his brothers, including the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost, left, during an interview with the Associated Press on Thursday, May 8, 2025, in New Lennox, Ill. (AP Photo/Obed Lamy)
Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, waves from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican after his election by the papal conclave as leader of the Roman Catholic Church on Thursday.
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Overview

  • Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Prevost, is the first pope from the United States, marking a significant milestone in Church history.
  • Prevost’s Chicago upbringing and lifelong White Sox fandom surfaced this week, with footage showing him at Game 1 of the 2005 World Series.
  • His ties to Villanova University also connect him to the New York Knicks, particularly due to their roster of former Villanova players.
  • Leo XIV’s leadership reflects a continuation of Pope Francis’s emphasis on social justice, environmental stewardship, and outreach to marginalized communities.
  • Prevost’s unique dual American and Peruvian background underscores his global perspective as he navigates the challenges of his new role.