The iconic forward, who scored a record 1,281 goals in 1,363 games, passes away after a battle with cancer.

Pelé, the Brazilian football legend and universally revered “King of Football,” has died at the age of 82. Known for his extraordinary skill and athleticism, Pelé’s career left an indelible mark on the world of sport. His death, confirmed by the Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo on Thursday, followed a lengthy battle with colon cancer and multiple organ failures. Pelé had been hospitalized in November 2022, after his health worsened, and his condition was further complicated by his past cancer treatment.

The official statement from Pelé’s Instagram page read: “Inspiration and love marked the journey of King Pelé, who peacefully passed away today. On his journey, Edson enchanted the world with his genius in sport, stopped a war, carried out social works all over the world and spread what he most believed to be the cure for all our problems: love.” The statement went on to say that his message of love would be a legacy for future generations.

Pelé’s health had deteriorated in recent months. A post from him in December revealed that he was feeling “strong, with a lot of hope” despite reports of receiving end-of-life care. His family gathered with him over the Christmas period, as his condition worsened due to renal and cardiac issues, linked to his ongoing cancer treatment.

A player who changed the game, Pelé is the only footballer in history to win three FIFA World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970), a feat unmatched by any other. Throughout his illustrious career, he scored 77 goals in 92 appearances for Brazil, and an incredible 1,281 goals in 1,363 games overall. Retiring in 1977, Pelé had scored more than twice as many goals as his closest rival at the time.

Affectionately known as “the Black Pearl,” Pelé’s impact extended far beyond football, as he used his global fame to promote peace and social causes, forever cementing his place as not just a sports icon, but a cultural symbol of love and unity.