Lionel Messi Sends Condolences to Family of Frank Caprio, ‘The Kindest Judge in the World’

In a heartfelt gesture, Lionel Messi has joined the global outpouring of grief following the passing of Frank Caprio, the beloved Providence, Rhode Island, judge known as “The Kindest Judge in the World,” who died on August 20, 2025, at age 88. The Inter Miami star shared his condolences via Instagram on August 21, 2025, writing, “He was a good, kind person, but more than that, he showed the world what compassion looks like. My thoughts are with his family.” Caprio’s death, caused by pancreatic cancer, has left a profound void, with Messi’s tribute highlighting the judge’s universal impact.

Caprio, whose empathetic rulings on Caught in Providence inspired millions, succumbed after a battle with pancreatic cancer, diagnosed in December 2023. His family confirmed his passing to WPRI.com, noting he died peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Caprio’s viral courtroom moments, like forgiving a 96-year-old’s speeding ticket due to his son’s medical needs, earned him 3.3 million Instagram followers and billions of views. His philosophy, “I don’t wear a badge under my robe; I wear a heart,” resonated globally, including with Messi, who reportedly watched clips during his recovery from an adductor injury in early 2025.

Messi’s message, posted from Miami, reflects his admiration for Caprio’s humanity. “I watched his videos and felt inspired by his fairness and kindness,” Messi wrote, joining figures like Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee, who called Caprio a “state treasure.” The footballer’s connection to Caprio’s story may stem from their shared emphasis on empathy—Messi, a UNICEF ambassador, has often spoken about using his platform for good. Fans on X praised the gesture, with one user noting, “Messi honoring Caprio shows his heart off the pitch” (@SoccerHeart).

Caprio’s legacy includes nearly 40 years on the Providence Municipal Court and founding the Antonio “Tup” Caprio Scholarship Fund at Suffolk University. His final Instagram video, posted August 19, 2025, from his hospital bed, thanked supporters and requested prayers. The response to his passing has been immense, with McKee ordering flags at half-staff and the Providence City Council honoring Caprio’s courtroom in 2023. Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, also shared a story on Instagram, reposting a Caught in Providence clip with a heart emoji, signaling the couple’s shared admiration.

As Messi prepares for Argentina’s World Cup qualifier against Venezuela on September 4, 2025, potentially his last international match, his tribute to Caprio underscores a shared commitment to compassion. Caprio’s family urged others to carry forward his legacy of kindness, a call Messi echoed: “Let’s honor him by being kinder to each other.” This moment unites two icons whose influence transcends their fields, leaving a lasting message of humanity.