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🎧Audio Experience of this article Did you know Pelé scored a record 1,281 goals in 1,363 games? This made him a Guinness World Record holder12. He was born Edson Arantes do Nascimento on October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Brazil. Pelé started playing soccer early and won three FIFA World Cups in 1958, 1962, and 197031. He’s known worldwide as a football legend and sports icon, his skills and achievements make him unforgettable in sports history. Pelé found his love for soccer early. His incredible talent got him noticed by Santos FC and then the New York Cosmos. He won big awards, like being named Athlete of the Century by L’Équipe in 19803. Even after his playing days, Pelé was a key advocate for soccer and a humanitarian. He died on December 29, 2022, but his impact and legacy as the football king are alive, inspiring newer generations. Key Takeaways Pelé scored 1,281 goals in 1,363 games, a Guinness World Record 1 2 . . Born on October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Brazil, and passed away on December 29, 2022, in São Paulo, Brazil. He won three FIFA World Cups with Brazil in 1958, 1962, and 1970 3 1 . . Named Athlete of the Century by French sports publication L’Équipe in 1980 3 . by French sports publication L’Équipe in 1980 . Played for Santos FC and the New York Cosmos , leaving an enduring legacy. and the , leaving an enduring legacy. A dedicated humanitarian and ambassador for the sport, shaping the world of soccer. Early Life and Background Pelé was born on October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Brazil32. He grew up in a simple home2. His dad was a former footballer and his mom saw Pelé’s talent early on. This started Pelé’s love for football, a sport that would make him famous worldwide. Birth and Family Pelé got his name from Thomas Edison, the American inventor. His family called him “Dico” for short2. He later got the nickname “Pelé,” but we’re not sure why it was chosen3. Growing up in a football-loving family helped him dream big. His father taught him a lot about the game, making sure Pelé was on the right track from a young age. Childhood and Early Influences In Bauru, São Paulo, Pelé started shaping his football future2. There, he played with anything he could find as a ball, like socks stuffed with newspapers. Despite starting with little, his talent was clear when he played for local teams. Working with Waldemar de Brito was important for Pelé2. Brito was a former player for Brazil who saw Pelé’s gift. He helped Pelé move from playing in small games to becoming a professional. This time in his life was vital. It’s when Pelé learned the skills that made him a star. “Dico will be the greatest footballer in the world,” predicted Waldemar de Brito, highlighting Pelé’s immense potential. Pelé’s early years were full of the right kind of training2. Thanks to his natural ability and the lessons he learned, he was well-prepared for his amazing career. This preparation led to him being a huge success with the Brazilian national team. Aspect Details Birth Date October 23, 19403 Place of Birth Três Corações, Brazil32 Parents Dondinho (João Ramos do Nascimento) and Celeste Arantes2 Nickname Pelé Early Teams Sete de Setembro, Bauru AC2 Mentor Waldemar de Brito Rise to Stardom At 15, Pelé’s life changed when he joined Santos FC. A man named Waldemar de Brito predicted he would be the best player worldwide. Not long after, Pelé scored his first goal for Santos FC. This started his amazing career. He later scored a total of 643 goals for Santos FC. Joining Santos FC Pelé’s fame grew quickly. By 16, he was the league’s top scorer. His Santos FC debut marked a new chapter in Brazilian football. Shortly after, he played for the Brazilian national team. His impressive early shows on the field led to future success, including winning the FIFA World Cup. Early Achievements Pelé helped Santos FC win many titles. These included two Libertadores Cups and two Intercontinental Cups. In 1961, Brazil even declared him a national treasure to keep him from leaving. His skills and achievements made him a world-famous athlete, starting from his days at Santos FC. Pelé: The Football Icon Pelé was not just a football icon, he was a global sports superstar. Known as the king of football, he amazed fans with his incredible plays and goals. At Santos FC, he scored 643 goals in 659 matches, becoming their top scorer of all time1. His fame helped Santos FC gain international recognition, bringing him and his team to the world’s attention. In his bid to boost soccer in North America, Pelé joined the New York Cosmos. He played a key role in making the sport more popular in the US, adding to his already impressive international career with Brazil. He scored 77 goals in 92 games for his country1. Pelé’s skill to use both feet in striking the ball made him a standout player, admired worldwide. Pelé’s impact wasn’t limited to soccer. He was also known for his efforts in humanitarian causes and promoting peace and understanding through sports. In one notable event, a war-torn Nigeria paused its conflict to watch him play, reflecting his universal popularity4. His retirement was a major moment worldwide, highlighting his achievements not only in sports but also in making the world a better place. Lauded for his creative playing style and assists, Pelé’s contribution to the game went far beyond scoring goals1. His last game for Brazil against Yugoslavia in 1971 was a global spectacle, symbolizing the end of a remarkable era4. Pelé achieved a feat no one else has: scoring 1,279 goals in 1,363 games, according to the Guinness World Records1. By playing for the New York Cosmos, he not only brought soccer to the American forefront but also maintained his status as a world-renowned sports figure5. His influence as the king of football endures, inspiring new generations and marking his place in the sports world forever. World Cup Triumphs Pelé is a football legend, known for his amazing World Cup wins. In the 1958 World Cup in Sweden, he made history by winning at only 17. His incredible skills helped Brazil take their first title6. Pelé scored six goals, with a hat-trick in the semi-final and two goals in the final, proving himself on the world stage6. 1958 World Cup Victory Pelé’s success in the 1958 World Cup was a huge moment for him and for Brazil. He became the youngest to win the cup. His play was superb, shining a light on Brazil’s football prowess. This victory marked the start of his legend as the ‘King of Soccer.’ 1962 World Cup Victory In the 1962 World Cup in Chile, Pelé faced tough times due to an early injury6. Despite his break from playing, Brazil managed to defend their title. He still made a big impact in the games he did play in. His standout goal showed his unmatched skills and control6. 1970 World Cup Victory The 1970 World Cup in Mexico stands out for Pelé6. It was the first time the whole world could watch it live. Pelé’s leading a brilliant Brazilian team to their third win is unforgettable. He scored 12 goals in total across 14 matches, showing why he’s one of the best in World Cup history7.