(VitalNews.org) – Born in 1940 in Brazil, Edson Arantes do Nascimento was known around the world as Pelé. When he was young, a former athlete introduced him to the game of soccer and he began making a name for himself as a teen. In fact, the government in Brazil recognized Pelé as a national treasure after he scored impressive goals against France and Sweden during the World Cup in 1958.
On December 29, the AP News reported that the soccer star died of organ failure at the age of 82. The renowned athlete lost his year-long battle with colon cancer, spending the last month or so in the hospital under “elevated care.” The loss for Brazil, his family, and fans around the world is immeasurable.
Brazil legend Pelé has died at the age of 82.
The original GOAT. A trailblazer. One of the finest players to ever lace up.
He will be missed by millions. pic.twitter.com/sZiiLLmCYF
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 29, 2022
Rolling Stone described Pelé as the best soccer player of all time, as his fancy footwork and love for the game helped him lead Brazil to multiple World Cup victories.
Even after he retired from playing the game, the Brazilian star didn’t stray far from his chosen sport. He became an ambassador for soccer and performed in multiple movies, doing his part to elevate the sport. Pelé received awards and accolades from many around the world, including Queen Elizabeth II, who bestowed him with an honorary knighthood.
Following his death, the legendary trailblazer received many tributes from athletes around the world, including Brazilian soccer star Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, who stated on Instagram that before Pelé, “10 was just a number.”
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