VATICAN CITY — June 11, 2025
In a moment that blended tradition with hometown pride, Pope Leo XIV made headlines today after appearing at the Vatican wearing a Chicago White Sox baseball cap. The image of the newly elected pontiff, casually tipping the brim of the iconic black-and-white cap as he greeted the faithful in St. Peter’s Square, has gone viral, sparking both surprise and admiration around the globe.
The pope, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, became the first American to hold the papacy when he was elected on May 8, 2025. His latest appearance appears to be a nod to his Windy City roots—and to the South Side team that longtime locals know as a symbol of grit and loyalty.
Vatican spokesperson Monsignor Luigi Ferraro confirmed the hat was indeed an authentic White Sox cap gifted to Pope Leo XIV by an American delegation during a private audience earlier this week. “His Holiness wore it as a gesture of gratitude and cultural connection,” Ferraro said. “He enjoys moments of informality that remind people he’s still one of them.”
Reactions have poured in from across the world. While some traditionalists expressed surprise at the deviation from papal attire, others celebrated the pope’s bold, personal touch.
“God loves baseball,” joked one user on social media, “and apparently, He favors the Sox.”
The Pope’s affinity for baseball isn’t new—he’s spoken warmly in past interviews about playing the sport as a boy and watching games with his brothers.
Whether this signals a new chapter in papal fashion—or simply a lighthearted tribute to his hometown—one thing is clear: Pope Leo XIV is not afraid to blend faith with a little flair.
As for the Chicago White Sox, their social media team wasted no time posting a photo of the pope with the caption: “Blessed and highly favored.”
