By Kyle Almond and Will Lanzoni, CNN
Pelé, the Brazilian soccer star who became a global icon, has died at the age of 82.
Born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, Pelé is the only man in history to secure three World Cup titles.
Early Career and World Cup Success
He was just 17 years old when he attracted attention during the 1958 World Cup, scoring two goals in the final against Sweden. His triumph continued with additional titles in 1962 and 1970, captivating fans globally through his remarkable dribbling and prolific goal-scoring capabilities.
Professional Play
For the majority of his career, Pelé played for the Brazilian club Santos. In the latter years before his retirement, he signed a lucrative deal to play in the North American Soccer League, where he added a championship title with the New York Cosmos to his illustrious career.
Honors and Recognition
In 2000, FIFA honored him as Player of the Century alongside Argentine legend Diego Maradona. This accolade continued to affirm his status as one of the greatest players of all time.
“I was born to play football, just like Beethoven was born to write music and Michelangelo was born to paint,” Pelé once stated, emphasizing his innate talent and passion for the sport.
International Highlights
Legacy and Influence
Pelé’s impact on soccer is immeasurable. He inspired countless players and contributed to the popularization of the sport worldwide. His legacy continues to be celebrated long after his passing, highlighting his exceptional skills, achievements, and influence on and off the field.
