Pele

Learn about Pelé — Brazilian football legend (born October 23, 1940) — his rise from humble beginnings to global icon, his achievements, philosophy, and memorable quotes.

Introduction

Pelé (born Edson Arantes do Nascimento; October 23, 1940 – December 29, 2022) is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history. In this article, we trace his journey, achievements, legacy, and some of his more enduring words.

Early Life and Family

Pelé was born in Três Corações, Minas Gerais, Brazil, the son of João Ramos do Nascimento (“Dondinho”) and Celeste Arantes.

His given name, Edson, was a tribute to Thomas Edison (though a clerical typo sometimes rendered it “Edison” in some documents).

He received the nickname “Pelé” during his school years—reportedly from a mispronunciation of his favorite goalkeeper, Bilé.

Youth & Rise into Professional Football

Pelé’s professional journey began early. At age 15, he joined Santos FC, one of Brazil’s prominent clubs.

In 1957, he was first called up to the Brazilian national team.

Career & Achievements

Club Career & Scoring Feats

• At Santos (1956–1974), Pelé became a scoring machine, helping the club win numerous domestic and international titles.

• Later, he had a stint with New York Cosmos (1975–1977) in the U.S., raising the profile of soccer there.

• Across all matches (including friendlies), Pelé is credited with 1,279 goals in 1,363 games (a Guinness World Record)

• In official matches, the statistics differ (e.g. 606 goals in 647 matches for club + national appearances).

International & World Cups

• Pelé won the FIFA World Cup three times with Brazil: 1958, 1962, and 1970.

• In the 1958 tournament, aged just 17, he starred — including in the final, scoring two goals.

• His 1970 Brazil team is often celebrated as one of the greatest national teams ever assembled, with Pelé at its heart.

Honors and Distinctions

• He was named Athlete of the Century by the International Olympic Committee.

• He was also one of the joint winners of FIFA Player of the Century.

• Pelé’s reputation as a “global ambassador” of football was widely recognized.

Legacy & Influence

Pelé’s legacy is multifaceted:

1. Iconic standard in football excellence
   He set benchmarks in scoring, skill, flair, and consistency that later generations would measure against.

2. Black sporting hero on the world stage
   As a Black Brazilian achieving global fame during times of social inequality, he became a powerful symbol of possibility and pride.

3. Ambassador and cultural figure
   After retirement, Pelé used his stature to promote soccer globally, engage in humanitarian work, and influence sports diplomacy.

4. Inspiration for athletes and non-athletes alike
   His beliefs about work ethic, humility, passion, and perseverance continue to inspire.

5. Evolution of how football is viewed globally
   His era helped shift football from regional popularity to a truly global sport, with stars known universally.

Personality, Philosophy & Traits

• Work ethic & discipline: Pelé often spoke of training hard, studying the game, continuous practice, and sacrifices.

• Humility and gratitude: Despite fame, he remained conscious of his roots and the opportunities given to him.

• Creativity & improvisation: He wasn’t just powerful—he was imaginative. Teammates and analysts often credited his spontaneous brilliance.

• Love for the game: For Pelé, football was more than a career—it was passion and identity.

• Awareness of responsibility: He understood that his visibility meant he could influence and inspire, and he often commented on the responsibility that carried.

Famous Quotes by Pelé

Here are several notable Pelé quotes that capture his views on success, life, and football:

“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.”

“Everything is practice.”

“A penalty is a cowardly way to score.”

“I don’t believe there is such a thing as a ‘born’ soccer player. Heart, skill and hard work are the only things that matter.”

“You must respect people and work hard to be in shape. And I used to train very hard. When the other players went to the beach after training, I was there kicking the ball.”

“Enthusiasm is everything. It must be taut and vibrating like a guitar string.”

These quotes reflect both his football mindset and general philosophy toward life.

Lessons from Pelé

1. Passion fuels excellence
   Loving what you do gives you resilience and drive through hard times.

2. No shortcuts to mastery
   Talent helps, but hard work, practice, discipline, and perseverance define success.

3. Be humble and grounded
   Staying connected to one’s roots and recognizing that success is not solely personal helps preserve perspective.

4. Adapt and create
   Greatness often lies in the ability to improvise, to respond to changing situations rather than rigidly adhering to routines.

5. Use influence responsibly
   Visibility and legacy come with obligations: to inspire, uplift, and lead by example.

6. Legacy is built over time
   Records fade, but the integrity, consistency, and impact you leave endure.

Conclusion

Pelé was far more than a footballer—he was a global cultural icon whose life story spanned poverty, global stardom, influence, and service. His records, achievements, and persona make him a legend of sport, but his quotes and philosophies show how he approached life and purpose.