Soccer Legend, Pelé, dies at 82

Brazilian soccer legend Pelé, winner of a record three World Cups, died Thursday at the age of 82 at Albert Einstein hospital in Sao Paulo, where he had been receiving treatment since the end of November.

He was born as Edson Arantes do Nascimento on Oct. 23, 1940, but came to be known by a single word recognized around the world — Pelé.

His agent, Joe Fraga, confirmed his death, and his daughter Kely Nascimento wrote on Instagram: “We love you endlessly. Rest in peace.”

Pelé was hospitalized, late November to treat a respiratory infection that was aggravated by COVID-19. The soccer legend had also been undergoing treatment after having a colon tumor removed in September 2021. Medical officials said he died of multiple organ failure as a result of the cancer.

The Brazilian will forever be synonymous with greatness. He won three World Cups, is one of the greatest goal-scorers of all time and was jointly named FIFA’s player of the 20th century, along with Maradona, during a glittering, 22-year career that ensured his wide consideration as the finest to ever play the game.