"Despite reaching this milestone, Pope Leo remains a relatively new figure on the papal stage. Even after 132 days in office, Vatican observers continue to speculate about the overarching direction of his pontificate. In several key areas, he has already diverged notably from his predecessor, Pope Francis (2013-2025). In August, Leo took two extended retreats at the papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo near Rome a location Pope Francis notably avoided."
"He dons the ornate papal stole, a symbol of grandeur rarely seen in recent years. Leo is preparing to move into the Apostolic Palace the top floor of the majestic building overlooking St. Peter's Square. The residence had stood vacant for 12 years and required extensive renovation before his arrival. Although Cardinal Robert Prevost's election drew attention to his athletic interests, his age at the time 69 already placed him above the average for newly elected popes."
"Sports-crazy and athletic Leo has cultivated an image of physical vitality bolstered by anecdotes from his former fitness trainer. "His enthusiasm for sports is very American: he plays tennis and is a devoted fan of the Chicago White Sox," notes Catholic theologian Benjamin Dahlke, a professor at the University of Eichstatt and a leading German authority on the US Catholic landscape. Dahlke adds that Leo's passion for sports makes him "relatable and human." He describes Leo as "highly professional," someone who speaks with measured deliberation. "Everything feels intentio"
Pope Leo XIV turns 70 after 132 days in office and exhibits a distinct shift from his predecessor through traditional gestures and visible symbols. He retreated twice to Castel Gandolfo and adopted more traditional papal attire, including an ornate stole, aligning visually with Benedict XVI. Leo plans to occupy the renovated top floor of the Apostolic Palace, which had been vacant for 12 years. His election followed older recent pontiffs, and his athletic image—tennis player and Chicago White Sox fan—has been emphasized by aides and commentators as making him appear relatable, professional, and measured in speech.
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