Pope Leo XIV Hit by Plush Toy at Vatican, Sparks Viral Moment
On June 25, 2025, a lighthearted yet startling moment unfolded at the Vatican when a plush toy, resembling Pope Leo XIV, was thrown from a cheering crowd, striking the pontiff on the head during his weekly general audience. The incident, captured on video, has gone viral, blending admiration for the Pope’s quick reflexes with concerns over his security, all while highlighting his deep connection to his Chicago White Sox fandom.
A Surprising Moment in St. Peter’s Square
As Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, waved to thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square from his popemobile, an enthusiastic well-wisher tossed a plush doll crafted in his likeness. The 69-year-old pontiff, born Robert Francis Prevost, deftly caught the toy one-handed, a move that drew cheers and comparisons to his days as a Chicago White Sox fan. “It was a baseball-level catch!” one onlooker exclaimed, as reported by Catholic Herald. The video, shared widely on social media, amassed millions of views, with posts on X noting the incident as both “adorable” and a potential security lapse.
The event occurred during the Pope’s routine Wednesday audience, a tradition where he greets pilgrims and delivers blessings. The plush toy, adorned with a miniature White Sox cap, was a nod to Leo’s lifelong support for the team, famously documented when he attended Game 1 of the 2005 World Series.
Why the Plush Throw Sparked Debate
While the crowd’s enthusiasm reflected the global excitement for the Chicago-born pope, the incident raised questions about Vatican security protocols. “This is honestly lovely to see, but what is his security doing?” one X user commented, echoing concerns about the risks of objects being thrown toward the pontiff. Renowned security expert Will Geddes told Metro News that the Vatican employs “extremely tough security” measures, including rigorous crowd screening, to prevent repeats of past incidents like the 1981 assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II. No action was taken against the individual who threw the doll, and the Pope’s security team appeared unfazed.
The moment also underscored Pope Leo’s unique appeal. His American roots and down-to-earth persona have resonated widely, particularly in Chicago, where a June 14 celebration at Rate Field drew 20,000 attendees to honor his election. “He’s a regular guy, a bridge builder,” said Father John Merkelis, a former classmate, during the event. The plush toy, a symbol of affection, highlighted the public’s desire to connect with a pope seen as accessible and relatable.
A Nod to Chicago’s Baseball Culture
The incident ties directly to Pope Leo’s identity as a White Sox devotee. His brother, John Prevost, clarified earlier this year that the pontiff was “always a Sox fan,” dispelling rumors of Cubs allegiance. The White Sox organization has embraced this connection, selling T-shirts with Leo’s name and the number 14, and inviting him to throw a ceremonial first pitch at Rate Field. “The mound is waiting,” said Brooks Boyer, White Sox Senior Vice President, during the June celebration.
What This Means
The plush toy incident, while minor, captures the global fascination with Pope Leo XIV, whose historic papacy blends American pragmatism with spiritual leadership. The viral catch has endeared him further to fans, but it also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between accessibility and security for a figure of his stature. As the Vatican continues to navigate his high-profile tenure, this moment will likely remain a quirky footnote in a groundbreaking papacy, with Chicago’s South Side cheering him on.
