SAO PAULO (Brazil) — Pelé, the Brazilian King of soccer who won a record three World Cups and became one of the most commanding sports figures of the last century, died Thursday. He was 82.
The standard-bearer of “the beautiful game” had undergone treatment for colon cancer since 2021.
He had been hospitalised for the last month with multiple ailments.
His agent, Joe Fraga confirmed his death.
Widely regarded as one of soccer’s greatest players, Pelé spent nearly two decades enchanting fans and dazzling opponents as the game’s most prolific scorer with Brazilian club Santos and the Brazil national team.
His grace, athleticism and mesmerizing moves transfixed players and fans.
He orchestrated a fast, fluid style that revolutionized the sport — a samba-like flair that personified his country’s elegance on the field.
He carried Brazil to soccer’s heights and became a global ambassador for his sport in a journey that began on the streets of Sao Paulo state, where he would kick a sock stuffed with newspapers or rags.
In the conversation about soccer’s greatest players, only the late Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are mentioned alongside Pelé.
Different sources, counting different sets of games, list Pelé’s goal totals anywhere between 650 (league matches) and 1,281 (all senior matches, some against low-level competition.)
The family of Edison Arantes Nascimento, more popularly known as #Pelé – one of the greatest footballers to have ever lived – had few days ago officially begun a transition watch for the soccer legend while in hospital bed.
Pelé spent the last 48 hours resting or calling friends and acquaintances. He is said to have recorded a formal farewell message.
His family members have assured his teeming fans all over the world that although he is in poor health presently and not expected to survive, they are making the time that is believed to be his final moments as comfortable and peaceful as possible as they surround his bedside, talking with him and helping him with his final official duties of sending out messages.
May this legend’s final memories be of sublime peace and may all he is conscious of be the grace and love of his loved ones who surround him at this time.
Pelé will be greatly missed. May his family find comfort in the remarkable memories he has created with them.
May all who love him be comforted in the truth that legends live forever. (AP)
