Pelé, the Brazilian soccer legend who set a record by winning three World Cups, passed away on Thursday. Elé was one of the most influential athletes of the 20th century. He was 82years.
The representative of “the beautiful game” had been receiving colon cancer therapy since 2021. He had been hospitalised for several illnesses over the last month.
Joe Fraga, his agent, confirmed his death.
One of soccer’s all-time greats, Pelé spent nearly two decades thrilling supporters and stunning rivals as the sport’s leading scorer for Brazilian club Santos and the Brazil national team.
Players and spectators were mesmerised by his elegance, agility, and captivating manoeuvres. He organized a quick, flowing style that transformed the game, personifying his nation’s grace on the field with a samba-like flare.
In a career that started on the streets of Sao Paulo state, where he would kick a sock filled with newspapers or rags, he led Brazil to the pinnacles of soccer and developed into a global ambassador for his sport.
