Sports World Reacts to Death of Brazilian Soccer Great Pele

The three-time World Cup winner was 82.

Brazilian soccer legend Pelé, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, died at the age of 82.

Pelé is regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history, especially since he won a record three World Cups with the Brazilian national team. He is the only player in history to accomplish this feat.

Because of his lasting impact on soccer, the sports world was collectively devastated by his death following the breaking news on Thursday. “RIP to the GOAT” was even trending on Twitter shortly after the news of his death.

Various former and current soccer stars posted tributes to the now-late legend, including some of the players Pelé once played against.

Soccer legend Pelé, who won a record three World Cup titles with Brazil and whose career spanned nearly two decades, died Thursday, his agent told the Associated Press.

He was 82 years old: https://t.co/ObmeLlBbkr pic.twitter.com/o0V2mpXTCM

— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) December 29, 2022

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

— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) December 29, 2022

RIP PELE 🇧🇷 💔 pic.twitter.com/s6H3RoUFkd

— John Terry (@JohnTerry26) December 29, 2022

I have so many memories of Pele, without doubt the best footballer I ever played against (with Bobby Moore being the best footballer I ever played alongside). For me Pele remains the greatest of all time and I was proud to be on the the pitch with him. RIP Pele and thank you. pic.twitter.com/oCpQlw7EIK

— Sir Geoff Hurst (@TheGeoffHurst) December 29, 2022

RIP Pele, a footballing legend 🙏🏾🏆❤️ pic.twitter.com/rEqjuEAdw2

— Khayon Edwards (@KhayonEdwards) December 29, 2022

The king of football has left us but his legacy will never be forgotten.
RIP KING 💔👑… pic.twitter.com/F55PrcM2Ud

— Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) December 29, 2022

Rest easy king 👑 pic.twitter.com/V1Qa1FsZYh

— Marcus Rashford (@MarcusRashford) December 29, 2022

Rest in peace Legend. 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/CvqQI1bvd2

— Wayne Rooney (@WayneRooney) December 29, 2022

Additionally, some soccer clubs from around the world posted tributes about Pelé and his impact on the sport.

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Pele, an extraordinarily gifted footballer who transcended our sport and inspired millions throughout his remarkable career.

Our thoughts and sincere condolences go to Pele’s family and friends. pic.twitter.com/ocr5KF239t

— Premier League (@premierleague) December 29, 2022

A legend, icon and true great of the game who will forever be remembered. Rest in peace, Pele. pic.twitter.com/I4UwAHmWkh

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 29, 2022

We are deeply saddened to hear that football legend Pelé has passed away. May we pass on our sincerest condolences to his friends and family.

Rest in peace, O Rei. pic.twitter.com/KtnZMGuz7d

— AC Milan (@acmilan) December 29, 2022

Barça expresses its sorrow to learn of the death of the "Rei" Pelé, one of the greatest footballers of all time. He made football greater than ever. May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/r8TQbVyN28

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 29, 2022

We are truly saddened to hear the news of Pele’s passing.

As a club, we had the privilege of hosting Pele in 1981, at Highbury. A memory we will always cherish.

Our thoughts, along with entire football community are with Pele's loved ones today. pic.twitter.com/PZgWmXvSRh

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 29, 2022

Manchester City are saddened to learn of the passing of Brazil legend Pelé, one of the all-time greats who did so much for the beautiful game. May he rest in peace 💙 pic.twitter.com/ufWoNWWcE9

— Manchester City (@ManCity) December 29, 2022

Other sports figures and sports leagues expressed their thoughts on the late soccer star, too.

A Sporting Legend.

Rest in Peace King Pele 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/AmehPBOR30

— Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) December 29, 2022

RIP Pele.

A man with a strong legacy that will be remembered FOREVER. 🕊️❤️

Legends Never Die they are always Remembered in the hearts of the People. pic.twitter.com/TDb5tVKVhG

— Burna Boy (@burnaboy) December 29, 2022

Stefano Domenicali:

Very sad to hear the news that Pele, one of greatest footballers ever has passed away. He was a shining light for Brazil and millions around the world. His skill, smile and brilliance will live on forever. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time pic.twitter.com/p4BlOgSonu

— F1 Media (@F1Media) December 29, 2022

Pelé was one of the greatest to ever play the beautiful game. And as one of the most recognizable athletes in the world, he understood the power of sports to bring people together. Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who loved and admired him. pic.twitter.com/urGRDePaPv

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 29, 2022