Pele: Brazil’s football maestro dies at 82, daughter shares on Instagram

New Delhi: Risen from barefoot poverty, Pele became the magical footballer no one ever saw coming. Known as one of the greatest and best-known athletes to ever live, Pele had the football world at his feet at the age of 17 playing his first World Cup in Sweden in 1958. Aiding Brazil’s victory to get their first-ever world championship.

Pele had been in and out of hospitals of late since there was a tumor detected in his colon. And succumbing to it, the legend died at the age of 82. The news was shared by his daughter on Instagram who posted a picture of their family holding hands. She emotionally mentioned that everything they are as a family is because of him, saying they love him infinitely. And breaking hearts around the world she said “Rest in Peace”.

Edson Arantes do Nascimento or as he was lovingly called Pele, scored a record 1281 goals and is the only player ever to win the World Cup three times. Reacting to the news of this football maestro, many posted their messages with broken hearts. Cristiano Ronaldo offered his condolences to the family saying “goodbye” to the Eternal King Pele. Sharing his pain he mentioned that the legend will never be forgotten and will live on forever in the memory of football fans.

 

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A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano)

Neymar Jr. in his condolences mentioned how before Pele 10 was just a number, and that before Pele football was just a sport. Offering his respects he said Pele gave a voice to the poor and especially black people and also gave visibility to Brazil.

 

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A post shared by NJ ?? (@neymarjr)

Lionel Messi, along with many other football and non-football-related celebrities took to Instagram to express everything they were feeling over this loss. All saying “KING FOREVER” and praying that he may Rest In Peace.

 

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A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi)