Pelé
The King of football, Pelé remains the only player to win three World Cup titles and is celebrated as a global icon of the beautiful game.
Edson Arantes do Nascimento (23 October 1940 – 29 December 2022), better known by his nickname Pelé, was a Brazilian professional footballer who played as a forward. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in history, he was among the most successful and popular sports figures of the 20th century. His 1,279 goals in 1,363 games, which includes exhibition games, is recognised as a Guinness World Record. In 1999, he was named Athlete of the Century by the International Olympic Committee and was included in the Time list of the 100 most important people of the 20th century. In 2000, Pelé was voted World Player of the Century by the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) and was one of the two joint winners of the FIFA Player of the Century, alongside Diego Maradona.
Quick Facts
- Sport
- Association Football
- Nationality
- Brazilian
- Primary club
- Santos FC; New York Cosmos
- Position
- Forward
Lore & Background
Pelé began playing for the Brazilian club Santos at age 15, and for the Brazil national team at 16. During his international career, he won three FIFA World Cup titles – in 1958, 1962, and 1970 – becoming the only player to do so and the youngest to win a World Cup, at just 17 years old. He was nicknamed O Rei (the King) following the 1958 World Cup. With 77 goals in 92 games for Brazil, Pelé held the record as the national team's top goalscorer for over fifty years. At club level, Pelé is Santos' all-time top goalscorer with 643 goals in 659 games. In a golden era for Santos, Pelé led the club to victory at the 1962 and 1963 Copa Libertadores and at the 1962 and 1963 Intercontinental Cup.
Reader's Guide
Pelé averaged almost a goal per game throughout his career and could strike the ball with either foot. While predominantly a striker, he could also be a playmaker, providing assists with his vision and passing ability. In Brazil, he was hailed as a national hero for his accomplishments in football and for his outspoken support of policies to benefit the poor. His emergence at the 1958 World Cup, where he became a Black global sporting star, was a source of inspiration. Throughout his career and in his retirement, Pelé received numerous individual and team awards for his performance on the field, his record-breaking achievements, and his legacy in the sport.
Did You Know?
- Pelé was named after the American inventor Thomas Edison, but his parents removed the 'i' and called him 'Edson'.
- He credited futsal for helping him think better on the spot and for giving him confidence as a young player.
- Pelé's most memorable goal, in his own words, was scored against Clube Atlético Juventus on 2 August 1959, though no video footage exists.
- In 1961, the government of Brazil declared Pelé an 'official national treasure' to prevent him from being transferred out of the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Pelé?
Edson Arantes do Nascimento, universally known as Pelé, was a Brazilian forward regarded as one of the greatest athletes in history. He rose from humble beginnings to become an international icon synonymous with excellence on the pitch.
Which teams did he represent?
Pelé spent most of his career playing for Santos FC before finishing his professional journey with the New York Cosmos in America. These clubs served as the stage for his legendary skill and goal-scoring prowess.
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