The world mourned the passing of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known as Pele, the greatest soccer player in history, with heavy hearts. At the age of 80, Pele passed away quietly in his sleep on December 29, 2022.

Pele was born in Tres Coracoes, Brazil, on October 23, 1940. He started playing soccer at an early age and rapidly became well-known, demonstrating his extraordinary talent and his love for the game. Pele rapidly earned the title “King of Soccer” thanks to his unrivaled on-field abilities.

When Pele signed with Santos FC, a team in his native Sao Paulo, he began his professional career. Pele dominated soccer for the next two decades, setting several records and inspiring his team to multiple victories. He earned a reputation as one of the best goal-scorers of all time and won three World Cups with the Brazilian national team.

Pele enjoyed the same popularity off the field as he did on it. He was renowned for his generosity, modesty, and unwavering dedication to advancing soccer. He traveled extensively during his life, expressing his love of the game and using soccer as a means of promoting peace. Global soccer players and fans have expressed their sorrow and sympathies in response to Pele’s passing.

FIFA, the organization that oversees international soccer, stated, “Pele was a talented soccer player, but he was also more. He was a gentleman, a great icon, and a global ambassador for the sport. Although he will be sorely missed, his legacy will endure forever.”

I asked my fellow BCCHS classmates what they think about Pele’s death and here’s what they said. John Zachary(11) stated, “Pele was a good soccer player RIP.” Nicholas Beltran (11) added, “I don’t really watch soccer but Pele was a legend.”

The passing of Pele signifies the end of an era in soccer. He will be regarded as one of the all-time great athletes and a real symbol of the game.