Brazilian Football legend Pele is often recognized as one of the best players to ever play the game of football. Pele, who guided Brazil to three world championships (1958, 1962, and 1970), has struggled with his health recently but has continued to use social media. With 77 goals in 92 appearances, he leads Brazil's international scoring list. He was also a member of the famous 1970 World Cup-winning team.
Pele was admitted to the Sao Paulo hospital in Brazil on Tuesday to re-evaluate his cancer treatment after he had a tumor removed from his colon in September 2021. Pele says he’s “strong” and has “a lot of hope” as he continues his treatment for colon cancer.
His social media post on Saturday came after local media reports in Brazil said that the 82-year-old former footballer’s health had worsened.
“My friends, I want to keep everyone calm and positive, I’m strong, with a lot of hope and I follow my treatment as usual. I want to thank the entire medical and nursing team for all the care I have received. I have a lot of faith in God and every message of love I receive from you all over the world keeps me full of energy. And watch Brazil in the World Cup too!” said a statement on Pelé’s Instagram page.
Pele’s daughter provided the health update
This week, Pele's daughter Kely Nascimento attempted to soothe the public by stating that his admission was not an emergency nor that any "new dire prediction" was necessary. She explained that he had been admitted so that medical professionals may adjust his medication after certain Brazilian media reported that his health looked to be worse.
Many football stars and fans around the world sent prayers for the legend to get well soon as he is loved by many because of his humility and his magnificent career in the game.
Here’s how the people tweeted about him :
God Save The King 🙏#Pele pic.twitter.com/hfGLe51KJ3
— Anil Chhetri 🇳🇵 (@Anil_Bluez) December 4, 2022
Sad news about Pele. I did this sketch of a young Pele a few years ago and for people of a certain era he is the greatest of all time. #Pele #Brazil #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/cjnulmdVEI
— William Kay (@williamkay62) December 3, 2022
Never give up! Keep fighting King 👑❤️#Pele pic.twitter.com/IJao1Q91Rp
— Kemosabe (@dovahkiin_ssj) December 3, 2022
Very sad to hear the news about #Pele. He's on that Muhammad Ali level, in terms of impact on sport and transcending the sport.
— Nostradamus. (@Hxnz99) December 3, 2022
In terms of impact and 'greatness', he is without a doubt the GOAT.
3 world cups speak for itself. 🇧🇷🏆 pic.twitter.com/DJFx4cFFnt
Pelé, the 82-year-old King of Football and greatest footballer of all time, has moved to palliative care, as his cancer is no longer responding to chemotherapy.
— Dr. Marc (馬克博士) (@docspitsfire06) December 3, 2022
He was one of my childhood hero’s—what a brilliant talent #Pelé pic.twitter.com/rgsJmbVYxk
Keep fighting champ ✊ #Pele pic.twitter.com/cJzSOw3SHj
— ad (@adavison89) November 30, 2022
Praying for the king 🇧🇷 #Pele pic.twitter.com/uMdVESSCNF
— NRB WARSTONES WANDERS FC (@NRB_FC) December 3, 2022
Stunning tribute to Pelé thanks to Qatar.
— Anita Rao ☄️Wholistic Express (@Wholistically) December 3, 2022
Met Pelé and Enrique in Acapulco during an Olympics related convention. I went into fan mode, as he went about with gusto and zest Friend. One of my influences indeed. 🙏🏾 #Pele pic.twitter.com/iLJ6NhFjPa
Get well soon. #Pele 😪 pic.twitter.com/ltbiy5M7Ly
— J-Erwan Ndông (@ndong_erwan) December 4, 2022