40 Facts About Pelé

Early Life and Background

Pelé, a name synonymous with soccer, has a life filled with fascinating stories. Let's dive into some lesser-known facts about this legendary player.

1. Pelé was born Edson Arantes do Nascimento on October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Brazil. His parents named him after Thomas Edison.

2. His family was not wealthy. Pelé's father, Dondinho, was a soccer player who struggled to make ends meet.

3. As a child, Pelé couldn't afford a soccer ball. He often played with a sock stuffed with newspaper or a grapefruit.

4. Pelé's nickname came from his mispronunciation of his favorite goalkeeper, Bilé. The name stuck, and he became known as Pelé.

Rise to Stardom

Pelé's journey to becoming a global icon began at a young age. His talent was undeniable, and his rise to fame was meteoric.

5. At just 15 years old, Pelé joined Santos FC, a professional Brazilian soccer club.

6. By 16, he was the top scorer in the league, showcasing his incredible talent early on.

7. Pelé made his debut for the Brazilian national team at 16, scoring in his first match against Argentina.

8. In 1958, at 17, Pelé became the youngest player to play in a World Cup final. He scored twice in the final, helping Brazil win their first World Cup.

World Cup Triumphs

Pelé's World Cup performances are legendary. He played in four tournaments, leaving an indelible mark on each.

9. Pelé is the only player to have won three FIFA World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970).

10. During the 1958 World Cup, Pelé scored a hat-trick in the semi-final against France, becoming the youngest player to do so.

11. In the 1970 World Cup, Pelé scored the opening goal in the final against Italy, leading Brazil to a 4-1 victory.

12. Pelé's 1970 World Cup team is often regarded as the greatest soccer team of all time.

Club Career Highlights

Pelé's club career, primarily with Santos FC, was filled with remarkable achievements and records.

13. Pelé scored 643 goals for Santos FC, a record for the most goals scored for a single club until Lionel Messi surpassed it in 2020.

14. He led Santos to numerous titles, including six Brazilian championships and two Copa Libertadores titles.

15. Pelé scored his 1,000th career goal on November 19, 1969, a moment celebrated across Brazil.

16. In 1975, Pelé joined the New York Cosmos, helping to popularize soccer in the United States.

Personal Life and Legacy

Beyond the pitch, Pelé's life is filled with interesting anecdotes and contributions to society.

17. Pelé was married three times and has seven children.

18. He was named after the American inventor Thomas Edison, reflecting his parents' admiration for the famous figure.

19. Pelé was appointed a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador in 1994, using his fame to promote education and peace.

20. In 1999, the International Olympic Committee named Pelé the Athlete of the Century.

Records and Achievements

Pelé's career is decorated with numerous records and accolades, cementing his status as one of the greatest soccer players ever.

21. Pelé scored a total of 1,281 goals in 1,363 games, a record recognized by the Guinness World Records.

22. He was named FIFA World Player of the Century in 2000, sharing the honor with Diego Maradona.

23. Pelé was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 1993.

24. In 2014, Pelé received the FIFA Ballon d'Or Prix d'Honneur for his lifetime achievements in soccer.

Cultural Impact

Pelé's influence extends beyond soccer. He has left a lasting impact on popular culture and society.

25. Pelé starred in the 1981 film "Escape to Victory," alongside actors like Sylvester Stallone and Michael Caine.

26. He released several musical albums, showcasing his talent beyond the soccer field.

27. Pelé's autobiography, "My Life and the Beautiful Game," was published in 1977 and remains a popular read among soccer fans.

28. He was featured in a 2016 Netflix documentary titled "Pelé: Birth of a Legend," chronicling his rise to fame.

Honors and Recognition

Pelé's contributions to soccer and society have earned him numerous honors and recognition worldwide.

29. Pelé received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President George W. Bush in 1992.

30. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1997, receiving an honorary knighthood.

31. Pelé was named a United Nations ambassador for ecology and the environment in 1992.

32. In 2013, he was awarded the FIFA Ballon d'Or Prix d'Honneur for his lifetime achievements.

Interesting Tidbits

Pelé's life is filled with fascinating stories and lesser-known facts that add to his legendary status.

33. Pelé once stopped a civil war. In 1969, a 48-hour ceasefire was declared in Nigeria so both sides could watch him play in an exhibition match.

34. He is fluent in several languages, including Portuguese, Spanish, and English.

35. Pelé's jersey number, 10, has become iconic and is often associated with the best players in soccer.

36. He has a statue in his honor outside the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Final Years and Legacy

Even after retiring, Pelé's influence on soccer and society continues to be felt.

37. Pelé has battled health issues in recent years, including hip surgeries and kidney problems.

38. Despite his health challenges, he remains active on social media, engaging with fans worldwide.

39. Pelé's legacy is celebrated annually on October 23, known as Pelé Day in Brazil.

40. His impact on soccer and popular culture ensures that Pelé's name will be remembered for generations to come.

Pelé's Legacy Lives On

Pelé's impact on soccer is undeniable. From his early days in Brazil to becoming a global icon, his journey inspired millions. Scoring over 1,000 goals, winning three World Cups, and being named FIFA's Player of the Century are just a few highlights. His skills on the field were matched by his sportsmanship and dedication to the game.

Beyond the pitch, Pelé's influence extended to philanthropy and promoting soccer worldwide. His efforts helped elevate the sport's popularity, making it the beloved game it is today. Kids everywhere dream of emulating his moves, and his name remains synonymous with excellence.

Pelé's story isn't just about records and trophies. It's about passion, perseverance, and the joy of playing soccer. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us all of the beautiful game's magic.