The cold hand of death has yet again robbed the football fraternity of a benevolent man, Pelé, who contributed immensely to the beautiful game.
Born Edson Arantes do Nascimento in 1940, Pelé’s influence transcended sports; he was an icon, a legend, a maverick, an ex-factor, among other things, and a man whose legacy will forever be immortalized.
Pelé, who died on Thursday after a long battle with colon cancer, was widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, having led Brazil to a trio of World Cup titles in 1958, 1962, and 1970.
He dies as the record holder for Brazil’s leading goal scorer with 77 goals in 92 games.
In honour of the man who broke a world record with 1,282 career goals, tribute messages from football players and world leaders have continued pouring in.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was among the first notable World leaders to write a tribute message for the legend.
He wrote: “We are saddened to learn that the Brazilian football legend, Pelé has passed away at 82. We fondly remember the three-time World Cup winner’s flair and how he dazzled opponents. MHSRIP!”
Former United States of America President Barack Oboma also wrote: “Pelé was one of the greatest to ever play the beautiful game. And as one of the most recognizable athletes in the world, he understood the power of sports to bring people together. Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who loved and admired him.”
Meanwhile, former and current footballers have also taken to social media to send their tribute messages to one the greatest of all time.
Portuguese forward, Cristiano Ronaldo wrote: “My deep condolences to all of Brazil, and in particular to the family of Edson Arantes do Nascimento. A mere “goodbye” to the eternal King Pelé will never be enough to express the pain that the entire football world is currently embracing. An inspiration to so many millions, a reference yesterday, today and forever. The love you always showed me was reciprocated in every moment we shared even from distance. He will never be forgotten and his memory will live forever in each and every one of us football lovers. Rest in peace King Pelé!”
Brazilian star, Neymar Jr, also penned an emotional message on his social media platforms.
He wrote: “Before Pelé, 10 was just a number. I’ve read this phrase somewhere, at some point in my life. But this sentence, beautiful, is incomplete. I would say before Pelé football was just a sport. Pelé has changed it all.He turned football into art, into entertainment gave voice to the poor, blacks and mostly:Gave visibility to Brazil.Soccer and Brazil have raised their status thanks to the King!He’s gone but his magic remains.Pelé is FOREVER!!”
Many other footballers and the football fraternity at large have continued sharing tribute messages in honour of the man who has died with the record for the most World Cup titles ever won by a player in football history.
