Pele, one of the most iconic and beloved athletes in the world and perhaps the greatest soccer player of all time, has passed away at the age of 82.
- Pele’s death was confirmed by his agent Joe Fraga and his daughter Kely Nascimento, on her Instagram account.
- She shared a message that translates to “Everything we are is thanks to you. We love you infinitely. Rest in peace.”
- Born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, he was dubbed Pele after mispronouncing the name of a player called Bile, according to ESPN.
- Disney fans are likely familiar with the Pele Soccer Shop, which has locations in both Downtown Disney in Disneyland Resort and Disney Springs in Walt Disney World Resort.
- Pele has also been a subject of focus in ESPN’s 30 for 30 documentary series as well as other series like Abby’s Places on ESPN+.
- Pele won a record three World Cups for Brazil and was officially declared a national treasure by the Brazilian government to keep him from signing with a European club.
- He would later go on to play in the U.S., for the New York Cosmos.
- He ended his playing career on October 1, 1977, in an exhibition between the Cosmos and his former club, Santos. He played a half for each team.