Brazilian soccer superstar, Pele, has died at the age of 82. Edson Arantes do Nascimento, commonly known as Pele, is widely regarded as one of the greatest sporting figures of all time. He is the all-time leading scorer of the Brazil national team, one of the greatest soccer teams in the world, and is the only player to have won three World Cups. He was named Athlete of the Century by the International Olympic Committee and is a member of the Brazilian Football Museum Hall of Fame and the Football Hall of Fame. 

In early November, Pele was hospitalized for a respiratory infection caused by colon cancer. According to a statement from Albert Einstein Hospital, Pele’s cancer worsened throughout the following weeks and he eventually died on December 29, 2023, due to organ failure (CNN).

Pele had a widespread impact on the world’s sporting stage. Many of the world’s greatest athletes are sending their condolences to the Nascimento family. Another Brazilian soccer star, Neymar Jr, released a statement on his Instagram: “I would say before Pele, football was just a sport. Pele has changed it all.” Cristiano Ronaldo released an emotional statement to the public saying, “A mere goodbye to the eternal King Pele will never be enough to express the pain that the entire football world is currently embracing. An inspiration to so many millions, a reference for yesterday, today, and forever.” 

With the booming popularity of the World Cup, Eaton High School students are well aware of the loss of Pele. Walker Copeland (23) said, “I’ve just started getting into soccer but I know Pele is a legend of the sport and he will be missed by all.” 

Pele is an iconic figure in the history of football and his legacy continues to inspire and influence players and fans around the world.