Sister Inah Canabarro, a Brazilian nun with a passion for soccer, has been recognized as the world's oldest living person, approaching the remarkable age of 117. LongeviQuest, an organization specializing in verifying supercentenarians, confirmed her age using early life records.

Following the passing of Tomiko Itooka in Japan at 116 years old in December 2024, Sister Canabarro, now using a wheelchair, assumed the title. Her nephew maintains regular contact, visiting every Saturday and sending voice messages throughout the week, which reportedly uplift her spirits, especially after two recent hospitalizations.

Sister Inah Canabarro in prayer in Porto Alegre, Brazil, on February 16, 2024. (Carlos Macedo/LongeviQuest, via AP)

Born into a large family in southern Brazil on June 8, 1908, according to official records, her nephew clarifies that her birth was registered two weeks later than her actual birthdate of May 27, 1908. As a teenager, she embraced religious life, spending time in Montevideo, Uruguay, before relocating to Rio de Janeiro and eventually settling in her home state of Rio Grande do Sul.

In recognition of her 110th birthday, she received honors from Pope Francis. She holds the distinction of being the second-oldest nun ever recorded, following Lucile Randon, who held the title of world's oldest person until her passing in 2023 at the age of 118.

Pope Francis with a rosary during Mass at the Vatican on October 29, 2023. (Riccardo De Luca/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Beyond her deep faith, Sister Canabarro is a dedicated fan of the local soccer club, Inter. Founded after her birth, the club acknowledges her as their oldest supporter and celebrates her birthday annually. Her room is adorned with team memorabilia in their signature red and white colors.

In a video celebrating her 116th birthday with the club's president, she affirmed her love for the team, stating, "White or black, rich or poor, whoever you are, Inter is the team of the people."