Pope Leo XIV's Chicago hometown teams see postseason success

Following the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, Chicago-based sports teams have seen a notable shift in performance. The Chicago White Sox have secured a playoff spot after three consecutive seasons with 100 losses, while the Chicago Cubs are making back-to-back postseason appearances for the first time since 2018. Additionally, the Chicago Bears recently won the NFC North and secured their first playoff victory in 15 years.

When asked by reporters if his support contributed to the White Sox's success, the Pope declined to comment directly, stating, “Great things happen in Chicago.” The pontiff has previously expressed sporting interests, including support for Real Madrid and his alma mater, Villanova University, which is set to play Notre Dame in a basketball doubleheader in Rome on November 1.