Short Summary
Pelé, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His remarkable career spanned over two decades, during which he set numerous records and achieved unparalleled success on the international stage. Known for his exceptional skill, athleticism, and sportsmanship, he played a pivotal role in popularizing football globally. Pelé's influence extended beyond the sport, making him a cultural icon and an ambassador for soccer worldwide.
Early Life & Education
Edson Arantes do Nascimento was born on October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Brazil, to a modest family. His father, João Ramos do Nascimento, was a footballer, which sparked Pelé's early interest in the sport. Growing up in poverty, he often played football with a sock stuffed with newspaper. Despite financial hardships, his parents supported his passion for the game. Pelé's talent was evident from a young age, and he joined a youth team in Bauru, where his skills were honed. His education was informal, as he focused on football, eventually being discovered by Waldemar de Brito, who would guide him to a professional career.
Career Highlights
Pelé's professional career began at the age of 15 when he joined Santos FC, quickly making an impact by helping the team win numerous championships. His international debut for Brazil came at 16, and he gained global fame at the 1958 FIFA World Cup, where he helped Brazil win the title and became the youngest player to score in a World Cup final. Over his career, he won three World Cups (1958, 1962, and 1970), the only player to achieve this feat. After retiring from Brazilian football, he played for the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer League, further elevating the sport's profile in the United States.
Major Achievements
- Won three FIFA World Cups with Brazil (1958, 1962, 1970), the only player to do so.
- Scored over 1,000 career goals, becoming one of the most prolific scorers in football history.
- Named FIFA World Player of the Century in 1999, highlighting his influence on the sport.
- Inducted into the Brazilian Football Museum Hall of Fame for his outstanding contributions.
- Played a key role in popularizing soccer in the United States during his time with the New York Cosmos.
Famous Quotes
- "Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do."
- "The more difficult the victory, the greater the happiness in winning."
Interesting Facts
- Pelé was named after Thomas Edison, although his parents decided to remove the "i" from Edison.
- He scored his first international goal at age 16, making him one of the youngest international scorers.
- He was declared a national treasure by the Brazilian government to prevent him from being transferred to a European club.
- Pelé was appointed as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador in 1994.
- He starred in the film "Escape to Victory" alongside actors like Sylvester Stallone and Michael Caine.
Legacy / Influence
Pelé's impact on football is immense, as he helped transform the sport into a global phenomenon. His style of play and sportsmanship set new standards, inspiring generations of players. Beyond the field, he used his fame to advocate for social causes and promote soccer worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy as an ambassador of the sport. His contributions to football are celebrated by fans and professionals alike, cementing his status as a legend.
FAQ
Q: Why is Pelé famous?
A: Pelé is famous for being one of the greatest footballers of all time, winning three World Cups and scoring over 1,000 goals.
Q: How many goals did Pelé score in his career?
A: Pelé scored over 1,000 goals in his professional career.
Q: What teams did Pelé play for?
A: Pelé played for Santos FC in Brazil and the New York Cosmos in the United States.
Q: What is Pelé's real name?
A: Pelé's real name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento.
