By Sally Romeo 
Pelé’s Death, the Brazilian Legend and One of the Greatest Football Players of All Time, Passes Away
On Thursday, the world of football was shaken by the news of the passing of Brazilian legend Pelé. Known as one of the greatest players of all time, Pelé changed the game with his god-given talent and will forever be remembered as a historical figure in the sport.
Pelé, whose full name was Edson Arantes do Nascimento, was born on October 23, 1940 in Três Corações, Brazil. He began playing football at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks, making his professional debut at just 16 years old for Santos FC. It was at Santos where Pelé truly made a name for himself, leading the team to numerous victories and earning the nickname “O Rei” (The King) for his impressive skills on the pitch.
Pelé’s impact on the Brazilian national team was just as significant. He helped lead Brazil to three World Cup victories (1958, 1962, and 1970), scoring a total of 12 goals in the tournaments. His performances in the 1958 and 1970 World Cups were particularly noteworthy, as he was named the tournament’s best player and awarded the Golden Ball.
But Pelé’s impact on the game went beyond just his on-field accomplishments. He was known for his sportsmanship and his ability to bring people together through the beautiful game. He played with a joy and passion that was contagious, and his love for the sport was evident in every match he played.
Pelé’s influence on football extended beyond the pitch as well. He was an ambassador for the sport and used his platform to promote peace and unity. In 1999, he was named a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, and in 2001, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Bill Clinton for his contributions to the sport and his charitable work.
Pelé’s legacy will live on forever in the hearts of football fans around the world. His talent and impact on the game will never be forgotten, and he will always be remembered as a true legend of the sport. Our thoughts are with Pelé’s family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Pelé. O Rei do futebol (The King of football).