“Edson Arantes do Nascimento Pelé : The Brazilian football maestro, embodied skill, charisma, and sportsmanship, transcending sport to become a global icon of admiration.”
Name : Edson Arantes do Nascimento
Born : 23 October 1940
Place : Três Corações, Brazil
Died : 29 December 2022 (aged 82)
São Paulo, Brazil
Height : 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in)
Spouses : Rosemeri dos Reis Cholbi
Children : 7, including Edinho and Joshua Nascimento
Parent : Dondinho (father)
Relatives : Zoca (brother)
About
Edson Arantes do Nascimento, commonly known as Pelé, remains an enduring figure in football history. Born in 1940, Pelé’s legacy is defined by his exceptional career as a forward in Brazilian professional football.
His impact extended beyond the sport, earning him recognition as one of the greatest athletes of the 20th century.
Renowned for his remarkable achievements, Pelé’s accolades include being named Athlete of the Century by the International Olympic Committee in 1999 and receiving recognition in Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential figures of the 20th century.
The International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) honored him as the World Player of the Century in 2000, and he shared the FIFA Player of the Century title with another football legend.
Football legend: Pelé, record-breaking, iconic scorer and Football icon Maradona , genius remembered.
Pelé’s playing career, notably with Santos and the Brazil national team, showcased his extraordinary talent. He made his mark early, securing three FIFA World Cup victories in 1958, 1962, and 1970—an unmatched feat. His debut on the international stage at age 16 and his exceptional performance earned him the nickname “O Rei” (The King) after the 1958 tournament. For over five decades, his record of 77 goals in 92 games for Brazil remained unparalleled.
At Santos, Pelé’s impact was profound. He emerged as their all-time leading scorer with an impressive tally of 643 goals in 659 games. His leadership guided Santos to triumphs in the Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup during the club’s golden era.
Pelé’s electrifying style of play and ability to produce spectacular goals cemented his global stardom. He was pivotal in connecting the phrase “The Beautiful Game” with football, captivating audiences worldwide. Renowned for his versatility on the field, Pelé showcased exceptional ball-striking ability with both feet, adept anticipation of opponents’ movements, and proficiency in playmaking and dribbling.
Beyond his football prowess, Pelé was celebrated as a national hero in Brazil for his athletic achievements and his advocacy for social causes benefiting the underprivileged. His emergence as a prominent black global sporting figure during the 1958 World Cup served as a beacon of inspiration.
Even after retirement, Pelé continued to contribute to football as a global ambassador. His career was marked by countless individual and team awards, acknowledging his on-field performance, record-breaking accomplishments, and enduring legacy in the sport.
Early years
Pelé’s journey from humble beginnings in Bauru, São Paulo, to becoming a football icon is a testament to his resilience and innate talent. Growing up in poverty. He learned the game from his father, improvising with makeshift footballs—a sock stuffed with newspaper or a grapefruit—reflecting his determination to play despite the odds.
His early days saw him honing his skills with various amateur teams, showcasing his prowess and leadership .
Notably guiding Bauru Atlético Clube juniors to multiple São Paulo state youth championships. Futsal, a fast-paced indoor version of football. Became a pivotal part of his development, teaching him to think quicker adapt and play among older and more experienced players.
Pelé attributed much of his quick thinking and confidence to futsal, recognizing its role in shaping his approach to the game.
Despite initial doubts about his age. He emerged as a top scorer in tournaments. He is solidifying his self-belief and readiness to face any challenge head-on.
The challenges of futsal, its rapid pace and the need for instant decision-making sharpened Pelé’s abilities. Paving the way for the football legend he would become.
His formative years were a testament to his resilience, adaptability and unwavering determination to succeed against all odds.
Club career
Santos
1956–1962: early years with Santos and declared a national treasure
Pelé’s rise at Santos FC was meteoric, marked by a debut at 15 that hinted at the extraordinary career ahead. His incredible talent quickly garnered attention, and by 16. He was leading the league in scoring—a sign of things to come. European giants sought his signature, with clubs like Real Madrid, Juventus, and Manchester United . Pele is making attempts that were ultimately thwarted by Santos’ staunch resolve to retain their prized talent.
Even Inter Milan had a contract in the works, swiftly quashed due to fervent objections from Santos fans Valencia CF . Also sought to acquire him after the 1958 World Cup but Pelé’s scintillating performances only solidified Santos’ determination to keep their prodigy.
His impact at Santos was monumental, winning titles and setting records that endure to this day. In 1958, he claimed the Campeonato Paulista title as top scorer with an astounding 58 goals—a feat for the ages.
The following years saw Santos triumph in various tournaments. Pelé leading the charge both domestically and in international competitions like the Taça Brasil.
Where his nine goals propelled Santos to victory and secured their entry into the prestigious Copa Libertadores.
Pelé’s early years at Santos laid the groundwork for a career that would transcend the sport. Showcasing his unparalleled goal-scoring prowess and solidifying his status as a footballing legend in the making.
1962–1965: Copa Libertadores success
Santos FC’s peak in the Copa Libertadores unfolded in 1962 . with an impeccable run that showcased Pelé’s brilliance. Dominating Group One and surging through the tournament, Santos met defending champions Peñarol in the finals. .
Pelé’s two goals in the playoff match secured Santos’ first Copa Libertadores title, asserting Brazilian dominance. Simultaneously, Santos reigned in domestic competitions. Clinching the Campeonato Paulista and the Taça Brasil with Pelé’s astounding goal tally underscoring their triumphs.
The Intercontinental Cup victory against Benfica in 1962 further embellished Santos’ global stature. Pelé’s unforgettable hat-trick in Lisbon cementing his legendary status. His iconic goals like the memorable strike against Clube Atlético Juventus in 1959 and the gol de placa against Fluminense in 1961. Pele became part of football folklore and celebrated for their brilliance.
The subsequent years saw Santos maintain their supremacy with Pelé leading the charge. The 1963 Copa Libertadores saw Santos retain their title with Pelé’s . Pele as a hero against Botafogo and Boca Juniors ensuring their triumph.
Santos became the first Brazilian team to conquer the Copa Libertadores on Argentine soil.
While the club faced setbacks in later Copa Libertadores campaigns. Pelé’s scoring prowess persisted and ending as the top scorer in 1965. Despite Santos’ semi-final exit against Peñarol. His contributions remained pivotal as Santos continued to dominate domestically. Pele was capturing titles and etching an indelible legacy in football’s annals.
Pelé before facing Boca Juniors in the second leg of the 1963 Copa Libertadores Finals at La Bombonera . As the defending champions Santos qualified automatically to the semi-final stage of the 1963 Copa Libertadores. The balé branco (white ballet) the nickname given to Santos at the time. Pele had managed to retain the title after victories over Botafogo and Boca Juniors.
Pelé before facing Boca Juniors
Pelé helped Santos overcome a Botafogo team that featured Brazilian greats such as Garrincha and Jairzinho . With a last-minute goal in the first leg of the semi-finals. Which made it 1–1. In the second leg. Pelé scored a hat-trick in the Estádio do Maracanã as Santos won 0–4 in the second leg.
Santos started the final series by winning 3–2 in the first leg. And defeating Boca Juniors 1–2, in La Bombonera. It was a rare feat in official competitions. With another goal from Pelé. Santos became the first Brazilian team to lift the Copa Libertadores in Argentine soil.
1965–1974: O Milésimo and final years withSantos
Pelé’s final years at Santos brimmed with both individual milestones and team accomplishments. Despite a hiccup in the Taça Brasil in 1966 . Santos continued their dominance in the Campeonato Paulista, claiming titles in 1967, 1968, and 1969.
November 19, 1969, marked a historic moment as Pelé notched his 1,000th career goal, a feat celebrated nationwide in Brazil. This iconic milestone occurred during a match against Vasco da Gama, immortalizing Pelé’s legacy as one of the greatest goal scorers in history.
His impact transcended football, as seen in Nigeria during the Civil War. The factions called a temporary ceasefire to witness Pelé’s exhibition match in Lagos. An event that briefly halted hostilities and showcased the universal appeal of the sport.
Pelé’s tenure at Santos saw him flourish alongside exceptional talents like Zito, Pepe, and Coutinho. Their chemistry on the field created a formidable force. Marked by intricate plays and coordinated attacks . The flurry of goals that mesmerized fans.
After an illustrious 19-season tenure, Pelé bid farewell to Brazilian football. Pele was leaving behind a staggering record of 643 goals for Santos. It’s a milestone that stood the test of time until Lionel Messi surpassed it in December 2020 with Barcelona. Pelé’s departure marked the end of an era at Santos . He was leaving an indelible mark on the club’s history and football itself.
New York Cosmos
Pelé’s move to the New York Cosmos in 1975 ignited a seismic shift in American soccer, transcending mere play. Beyond the field, his influence was a magnet for legends like Chinaglia, Beckenbauer, and Alberto, bolstering the NASL’s allure.
His tenure saw the Cosmos soar to the 1977 Soccer Bowl, a testament to Pelé’s enduring brilliance. A record-breaking crowd of 62,394 witnessed his hat-trick, a showcase of his timeless skill.
The climax came with his farewell match on October 1, 1977, a sold-out spectacle at Giants Stadium broadcast globally. Pelé’s message, “Love is more important than what we can take in life,” resonated profoundly as he bid adieu with a majestic 30-yard free-kick, even moving a Brazilian paper to note, “Even the sky was crying.”
International career
1958 World Cup
Pelé’s meteoric rise during the 1958 FIFA World Cup marked the inception of a footballing legend. Arriving in Sweden with a knee injury, his initial participation was uncertain. However, his teammates rallied behind him, insisting on his inclusion in the squad.
In the third match against the USSR, despite being sidelined initially, Pelé made his mark, assisting Vavá’s goal. At just 17. He became the youngest player ever to grace the World Cup stage, a precocious talent with immense promise.
But it was the semi-final against France that etched Pelé into football folklore. Brazil was leading 2–1 . At halftime when Pelé, with a stunning hat-trick, showcased his extraordinary skills, becoming the youngest player in World Cup history to achieve this feat. His remarkable display of talent propelled Brazil into the final.
The World Cup final against Sweden on June 29, 1958, transformed Pelé into a global sensation. At 17 years and 249 days, he not only became the youngest player to feature in a World Cup final .
He also left an indelible mark by scoring two goals. His first goal, a flick over a defender followed by a volley into the net. He was heralded as one of the greatest World Cup goals ever.
Pelé’s impact extended beyond the scoresheet. His performance elicited admiration even from opponents, with Swedish player Sigvard Parling expressing a desire to applaud Pelé’s prowess on the field. The match concluded with Pelé collapsing, revived by Garrincha, and overcome by the victory, tears streaming down his face amidst the celebration.
His six goals in the tournament earned him acclaim as the best young player and established him as a beacon of inspiration, transcending the sport. Pelé’s influence, his ascent from Minas Gerais to global superstardom as the first black sporting icon, resonated far beyond the football field, inspiring generations and offering genuine hope in an era fraught with challenges.
Despite being a substitute initially and the disorganized allocation of jersey numbers, Pelé emerged as the revelation of the tournament, earning accolades and acclaim as the shining star of the 1958 World Cup.
1962 World Cup
The 1962 World Cup began with Pelé at the pinnacle of his career. In Brazil’s opening match against Mexico, he showcased his brilliance.
He is providing an assist and scoring a sensational goal after maneuvering past four defenders. However, misfortune struck in the following game against Czechoslovakia when Pelé sustained an injury attempting a shot from distance, sidelining him for the rest of the tournament.
Amarildo stepped in as Pelé’s replacement, contributing significantly. But it was Garrincha who emerged as the driving force, guiding Brazil to their second World Cup triumph in Santiago’s final against Czechoslovakia. In an era where only players in the final received medals, Pelé, despite missing out due to injury. He received his winner’s medal retroactively in 2007 after FIFA amended regulations in 1978 to include the entire squad.
1966 World Cup
The 1966 World Cup in England, despite the presence of celebrated players like Pelé, Garrincha, and others in the Brazilian squad. He ended in unexpected disappointment. Brazil’s campaign was marred by brutal fouls on Pelé. He resulting in injuries inflicted by Bulgarian and Portuguese defenders.
Pelé managed to score against Bulgaria, becoming the first player to score in three consecutive World Cups. However, injuries from persistent fouls forced him to miss the Hungary game. Despite not being fully fit, Pelé returned for the crucial match against Portugal .
But was the victim of a harsh foul not penalized by the referee, leaving him to play on while injured. Brazil’s defeat to Portugal led Pelé to vow to never participate in another World Cup, a decision he would later reconsider.
1970 World Cup
Pelé was called to the national team in early 1969, he refused at first, but then accepted and played in six World Cup qualifying matches, scoring six goals . Pelé’s influence and prowess were paramount in Brazil’s remarkable 1970 World Cup campaign in Mexico.
Alongside iconic teammates like Jairzinho, Gerson, Tostão, and Rivellino. Pelé’s central role in Brazil’s attacking front forged a memorable journey to the final.
In the group stage, Pelé exhibited his genius by scoring against Czechoslovakia with a stunning chest-controlled goal and nearly netting an audacious attempt from midfield.
His pivotal playmaking and near-goal against England, thwarted by Gordon Banks’ legendary save, added to the tournament’s lore.
Pelé’s contributions remained significant, scoring two goals against Romania and orchestrating plays that led to crucial goals against Peru and Uruguay. His memorable deception of Uruguay’s goalkeeper highlighted his skillful playmaking.
In the final against Italy, Pelé’s header for Brazil’s opener and his involvement in the build-up to the iconic fourth goal, orchestrated by Carlos Alberto, solidified Brazil’s 4-1 triumph. His exceptional performance earned him the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, culminating in Brazil’s third World Cup victory.
After his illustrious international career, Pelé’s impact remained indelible. Having played 92 matches for Brazil, contributing to 77 goals, and shaping an era that defined football excellence for generations.
Style of play
Pelé wasn’t just a player; he was the embodiment of football’s artistry and spirit. His adaptability on the field transcended positions, showcasing a versatility that few have matched. His skillset combined elegance, finesse, and sheer determination, enabling him to excel as a striker, playmaker, or even a deeper-lying midfielder.
Despite his smaller stature, his aerial ability and precision in free kicks were astonishing. But beyond statistics and skills,
Pelé’s sportsmanship and leadership left an indelible mark. The image of him exchanging jerseys with Bobby Moore, a gesture of mutual respect and camaraderie, epitomized the beautiful game’s essence.
Pelé’s influence extended far beyond goals and titles; he was a beacon of inspiration for generations. His grace, humility, and unwavering dedication embodied football’s purest ideals.
His impact wasn’t just on the pitch but in uniting people worldwide through a shared love for the sport. He symbolized the beauty, the flair, and the soul of football, leaving an everlasting legacy as one of the greatest not just for his talent but for his character and the joy he brought to the game.
Legacy
Pelé’s impact stretched far beyond the pitch, earning admiration and respect from peers and legends of the game. His name became synonymous with football excellence, revered by players, coaches, and fans worldwide.
Renowned figures like Johan Cruyff, Franz Beckenbauer, and Bobby Moore hailed Pelé as unparalleled, recognizing his intuitive understanding of the game and unparalleled skills.
Ferenc Puskás believed Pelé transcended classification as a mere player. while Just Fontaine felt watching. Pelé play made retirement tempting. Even legendary goalkeeper was said to be Pelé himself, a testament to his multifaceted abilities.
Pelé’s humility and humanity were as celebrated as his talent. His own reflection on the dichotomy between Edson, the person and Pelé,the icon. He speaks volumes about the enduring legacy he carried. His passing sparked an outpouring of tributes, affirming how his legacy continues to inspire and unite generations, solidifying his status as a global football icon even after his passing.
Pelé Pact”and Puma sponsorship
The “Pelé Pact” between Adidas and Puma ahead of the 1970 World Cup aimed to prevent a bidding war for Pelé’s sponsorship. He is paying him a substantial amount to promote their boots.
Strategically showcased the Puma King boots to a global audience, creating a marketing sensation. The Pelé deal became a pivotal moment in the rivalry between Adidas and Puma, fundamentally shaping the sports apparel industry by intensifying competition and triggering significant business innovations.
Personal life
Relationships and children
Pelé’s personal life encompassed three marriages and multiple relationships, resulting in seven children. His first marriage was to Rosemeri dos Reis Cholbi, with whom he had two daughters, Kely Cristina and Jennifer and a son named Edson (“Edinho”). Edinho encountered legal issues related to money laundering from drug trafficking.
Pelé had other children from affairs, including Sandra Machado, whose paternity was confirmed through DNA after a legal battle; she tragically passed away from cancer.
In his later years, at 73, Pelé married Marcia Aoki. He had been dating since 2010. They tied the knot in 2016, marking a new chapter in his personal life.
Politics
Pelé held a brief stint as Brazil’s Minister of Sports, focusing on anti-corruption reforms within state football associations. During the 2013 protests in Brazil, he urged support for the national team amid demonstrations. In 2022, he made a public plea to Russian President Vladimir Putin via Instagram, condemning the unjustified invasion of Ukraine, highlighting his stance against the conflict.
After football
UNESCOGoodwill Ambassador
Pelé’s engagement in various roles spanned from being appointed a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador in 1994 to serving as Brazil’s Minister for Sport in 1995 under President Fernando Henrique Cardoso. His proposed anti-corruption legislation in Brazilian football, known as the “Pelé law,” aimed to tackle corruption within the sport.
Pelé , Downing Street in London, 2012. at a hunger summit hosted by British prime minister David Cameron
His connection to football persisted; Pelé scouted for Fulham in 2002. He participated in the draw for the 2006 FIFA World Cup qualification groups .
He became the honorary president of the revived New York Cosmos in 2010, intending to join Major League Soccer. He highlighting his continued relevance and appeal in the football world.
Pelé transitioned into a prominent ambassadorial role, focusing on varied causes. Brazil recognized his contributions, awarding him a gold medal for his service to sports in 1995. The University of Edinburgh honored Pelé in 2012 with an honorary degree, acknowledging his humanitarian efforts alongside his sporting achievements.
His involvement extended to the Olympic realm. Pelé supported Rio de Janeiro’s bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics, contributing to the presentation in Abuja, Nigeria, to the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa.
In August 2012, he attended the Olympic hunger summit hosted by the British Prime Minister, David Cameron. He symbolizing the handover to Rio de Janeiro as the host city for the 2016 Olympics.
Death and funeral
Died : 29 December2022 (aged 82)
Pelé’s passing in December 2022 resonated globally. he eliciting profound tributes and mourning from across the world of football and beyond. Current football stars like Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappé, and Lionel Messi, among many others, offered heartfelt condolences.
Tributes poured in from sports icons, celebrities, and world leaders. Brazil’s outgoing President Jair Bolsonaro announced a three-day period of national mourning. FIFA marked the occasion by flying flags at half-mast at its headquarters in Zürich.
Landmarks worldwide, from Rio’s Christ the Redeemer statue and Maracanã Stadium to Wembley Stadium and CONMEBOL’s headquarters in Paraguay, were illuminated in homage to the football legend. Pelé’s death marked the loss of an unparalleled football icon, deeply felt and mourned on a global scale.
