Former AS Roma goalkeeper Julio Sergio has shared the heartbreaking news of the passing of his 15-year-old son, Enzo, following a long and courageous battle with a brain tumour. The announcement was made via a somber Instagram story, showing a black background with Enzo’s name, birth and death years, and small stars shining around his name.
Enzo had been diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2020. Despite undergoing surgery in 2022, his condition worsened in recent days, leading to a medically induced coma. On Sunday afternoon, Julio Sergio informed his followers of Enzo’s deteriorating state. In a heartfelt message, he wrote: “I’ve just visited Enzo… we are still in the same irreversible situation we’ve been discussing for days. He is in a medically induced coma, with sedation adjusted as needed, an oxygen catheter, but above all, he is at peace, surrounded by us parents, by his family, and by you. He feels no discomfort or pain.”
Over the past months and years, Julio Sergio had often documented the difficult journey faced by his son and their family, choosing to raise awareness about childhood cancer. Enzo became a symbol of resilience and hope in Brazil, even acting as a spokesperson in campaigns against cancer. His story captured the support and attention of many football legends including Daniele De Rossi, Neymar, Francesco Totti, Gianluigi Buffon, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Just days before Enzo’s passing, a video had gone viral of the former Roma goalkeeper shaving his head alongside his son, as Enzo was preparing to undergo yet another cycle of chemotherapy. The moment resonated with many and highlighted the deep bond and courage shared between father and son.
AS Roma, the club where Julio Sergio played from 2006 to 2011 and briefly again in the 2012–2013 season, expressed its condolences in a message posted on social media: “Julio, we are by your side in this moment of unimaginable sorrow. The entire AS Roma family embraces you.”
Francesco Totti, a former teammate and club legend, also paid tribute on Instagram with a simple message: “Ciao Enzo. RIP.”
The football world has rallied around Julio Sergio during this time of immense loss, paying tribute to the memory of a young life taken far too soon.
