Pelé: The King of Football
Full Name: Edson Arantes do Nascimento
Born: October 23, 1940 – Três Corações, Brazil
Died: December 29, 2022 – São Paulo, Brazil
Pelé was a Brazilian football legend widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Nicknamed “The King of Football” (O Rei do Futebol), he gained international fame for his extraordinary skill, agility, and goal-scoring ability.
Pelé began his professional career at the age of 15 with Santos FC and quickly rose to prominence. At just 17, he became the youngest player to score in a World Cup final, helping Brazil win the 1958 FIFA World Cup. He would go on to win two more World Cups with Brazil in 1962 and 1970, making him the only player in history to win three FIFA World Cups.
Over his career, Pelé scored more than 1,000 goals, a feat that solidified his status as a global icon. After retiring from Santos in 1974, he played for the New York Cosmos in the United States, helping to popularize soccer in North America.
Beyond the field, Pelé became a global ambassador for football and was awarded numerous honors, including being named FIFA Player of the Century (shared with Diego Maradona). He also served as Brazil’s Minister of Sports and supported many humanitarian causes.
Pelé passed away in December 2022 after a long battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy that transcends sports and inspires generations around the world.
📚Source:
- FIFA.com – Player Profile: Pelé
- Encyclopaedia Britannica – Pelé Biography
