Brazilian 'Football Emperor' Pele Passes Away at Age 82

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] Brazilian 'Football Emperor' Pel?, who had been battling colon cancer, passed away on the 29th (local time), according to major foreign media outlets including the AP News Agency. He was 82 years old.

According to reports, Pel?'s agent confirmed that he closed his eyes at Albert Einstein Hospital in S?o Paulo on that day. Pel?'s daughter, Kelly Nascimento, also posted a message on Instagram saying, "We will love you forever. Rest in peace."

Pel?, who underwent cancer surgery last year, recently experienced a significant decline in health due to multiple illnesses and had been re-admitted for treatment. There were even reports locally that Pel? was in critical condition and preparations for a state funeral had begun.

Regarded as the greatest football player of all time, Pel? was the key figure who led Brazil to victory in three World Cups during his active career. He scored 77 official goals in A-match records during his career. In 1999, he was named the greatest athlete of the 20th century by the International Olympic Committee.

The AP News Agency stated, "Pel? was the player with the most goals scored while playing for Brazilian club Santos and the Brazilian national team for decades," and "He was the figure who brought Brazil to the pinnacle of football." The New York Times (NYT) described him as "a figure praised for unparalleled talent and creativity on the field," and said, "He was loved by fans regardless of race, nationality, or class."

After retirement, Pel? was active as a politician, Brazil's special minister of sports, a wealthy businessman, and an ambassador for UNESCO and the United Nations. However, in recent years, his health deteriorated, and he was often seen in a wheelchair at official events. He is survived by two sons and five daughters.

The news of Pel?'s death has been met with condolences from football fans worldwide. Santos, the club where Pel? played, posted on its official social media a photo of a crown with Pel?'s name and stated, "You will be remembered forever." Pel?'s official Twitter account posted a photo of Pel? smiling brightly with the message, "Pel?'s journey, which ended today, was filled with inspiration and love," prompting countless fans to express their condolences through comments and hearts.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.