Picture Credit: Twitter
Brazil football legend Pele has reportedly passed away at the age of 82. The former World Cup winner was suffering from cancer and wasn't doing too well. The legendary footballer was admitted to the hospital for over a month. He had been battling colon cancer and spent Christmas in hospital, receiving treatment for cardiac and renal dysfunction, before his death was confirmed on December 29.
Pele’s daughter Kely Nascimento confirmed the news on Instagram, in a post that said: “Everything we are is thanks to you. We love you infinitely. Rest in peace.”
Widely considered as one of the greats of the game, Pele helped Brazil win FIFA World Cup not just once, but thrice in 1958, 1962, 1970, while also winning Golden Ball in the latter.
Former England striker Gary Lineker tweeted his condolences, saying: “Pele has died. The most divine of footballers and joyous of men. He played a game only a few chosen ones have come close to. 3 times he lifted the most coveted gold trophy in that beautiful yellow shirt. He may have left us but he’ll always have footballing immortality. RIP Pele.”