21 years later, Pope Leo XIV received the final out ball from the World Series he attended in person.

As everyone knows, Pope Leo XIV is a famous Chicago White Sox supporter. He personally attended Game 1 of the 2005 World Series, which the White Sox went on to win by sweeping the Houston Astros. Now, at last, the Pope has received a keepsake that is a perfect match for that triumph.

The former White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski posted on Twitter today that he had the honor of meeting Pope Leo XIV, describing it as an "incredible honor." Pierzynski took the chance to give the Pope the final out ball from Game 1 of the 2005 World Series. During that game, FOX broadcast cameras had captured the future Pope enthusiastically cheering for White Sox closer Bobby Jenks. Jenks ended up striking out Astros shortstop Adam Everett, sealing the victory for the team.

Over the decades, Pope Leo's love for the Chicago South Side team has never waned. Last year, a photo of him wearing a White Sox cap in the Vatican went viral. While this Game 1 ball is probably the most valuable gift he has received from his favorite team, his fan collection wall must be nearly full. He had previously been given a signed jersey by Paul Konerko and a bat once used by White Sox legend Nellie Fox.

Twenty-one years ago, was the Pope the White Sox's secret lucky charm in the Fall Classic? It's hard to say. However, given that the White Sox are set to be tied for first place in the AL Central by the end of this week, maybe the team should think about reserving a seat and a game ball for him during this year's October games.