Pelé, also known as Edson Arantes do Nascimento, passed away just over a year ago, and we already miss him dearly. Known as “The King,” despite his modest stature of just 1.73m, he was a giant in the world of football and revered globally as one of the greatest players in the sport’s history.
Born into poverty, Pelé rose to superstardom with his unmatched talent, electrifying performances, and record-breaking achievements. Pelé’s journey took him through only three teams: Santos FC, New York Cosmos, and briefly, São Paulo FC.
His accolades include three FIFA World Cup titles with the Brazilian national team, solidifying his status as a true legend of the sport. Pelé became a global sports ambassador, inspiring generations with his athletic skills and dedication.
Join us as we delve into 10 amazing facts about Pelé’s extraordinary life and career.
10 Amazing Facts About Pelé aka “The King”
1. 1,000th Goal
On November 19, 1969, Pelé achieved a remarkable milestone by scoring his 1000th career goal during the second moon landing of the Apollo 12 Mission. The momentous occasion was celebrated by hundreds of fans who flooded onto the pitch to congratulate the Brazilian player, causing a delay of over 30 minutes before the game could resume. Fans of Santos and Vasco da Gama jointly gave Pelé a standing ovation.
2. Pelé Interrupted a Civil War in 1969
In 1969, amidst the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) which pitted the federal government against the breakaway state of Biafra, an extraordinary event took place. On February 4, 1969, Pelé achieved a momentary ceasefire in the Nigerian Civil War. The arrival of Brazilian football club Santos prompted a remarkable 48-hour ceasefire.
The brutal conflict, which had been raging for several months, briefly paused as both warring factions, the Nigerian federal government and the Biafran forces, agreed to a truce to allow their citizens to witness the iconic footballer. This unprecedented event highlights the unifying power of sport, even in the face of immense political and social turmoil.
3. His Popularity Was Huge at New York Cosmos
While shirt-swapping is typically a spontaneous act, often occurring between opposing players or those delivering exceptional performances, Pelé’s experience transcended this norm. During his time with the New York Cosmos, his immense popularity necessitated a unique approach.
Anticipating the overwhelming demand from players eager to acquire his jersey, Pelé would arrive at games equipped with a staggering 25-30 shirts specifically for exchanges. This highlights the unprecedented level of admiration and desire for a memento with the Brazilian.
4. Pelé Scored 92 hat-tricks
This is an unbelievable feat. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, during his career Pelé scored 92 hat-tricks, and scored four goals on 31 occasions, five on six occasions, and once scored eight in one match.
5. Guinness World Record Holder
Pelé has two world records, those are the Most Career Goals and Most World Cup Winners’ Medals. He is also still the youngest player to score in a World Cup final.
What’s more impressive is that Pelé is by far the youngest player to win two World Cups. In 1958, a young Pelé enchanted Sweden with his football and became the youngest player to play in a World Cup final match. He was 17 years and 249 days. Pelé scored two goals in that final. “The King” won his second World Cup in 1962 at the age of 21.
6. Pelé Only Played For Three Teams
Pelé only played for three teams: the Brazil national team, Santos FC, and New York Cosmos.
At Santos (1956-1974), Pelé established himself as a footballing legend, racking up a staggering 605 appearances and scoring an unmatched 1281 goals.
In 1975, Pelé joined the New York Cosmos in the NASL, significantly boosting the sport’s popularity in the United States. He remained with the Cosmos for two seasons (1975-1977), making 64 appearances and contributing 37 goals.
For over 50 years, Pelé was the all-time leading goalscorer for Brazil, with 77 international goals, which he scored in 92 appearances until Neymar broke the record in 2023.
7. Pelé Was in the Military Service
Pele served in the Brazilian Armed Forces in 1959, one year after winning the 1958 World Cup title in Sweden. Private Nascimento did his military service in the 6th Coastal Artillery Group in Praia Grande, São Paulo.
Pelé also played on military teams as a part of his mandatory military service. He was the South American Military Champion playing for the Brazil Military National Team.
8. Pelé Career Stats: 1283 goals
While Guinness World Records credit Pelé with 1,283 goals, some sources dispute the exact figure, with many considering official competitive goals to be a more accurate measure. The number of goals Pelé scored has always been a topic of hot debate. Regardless, his goal-scoring prowess remains undeniable.
9. Named After Thomas Edison
I was named Edson, after Thomas Edison, because electricity had just been introduced to my hometown in Brazil when I was born
Pelé on Twitter, 2014
10. Professional Debut With 15 Years Old
A 15-year-old Pelé, already heralded as a future prodigy by the local media, made a sensational debut for his senior team on September 7th, 1956. Facing Corinthians, he announced his arrival on the big stage with a bang, scoring the opening goal in a dominant 7-1 victory. This marked the beginning of a legendary career that would see him rewrite footballing history.
FAQ’S
On What Date Was Pelé born?
October 23, 1940. Pelé was born in Três Corações, Minas Gerais, Brazil. He was given the name Edson Arantes do Nascimento at birth, but he later adopted the nickname Pelé, which is a shortened version of his childhood nickname, Pelezinho.
When Did Pelé Retire?
October 1st, 1977: This date marked the official curtain call on Pelé’s professional football career. A special exhibition match was played between his former club, Santos FC, and his current team, the New York Cosmos.
Years before, Pelé marked the end of an era by playing his last game for his Brazilian club, Santos FC, after an impressive 19-year career, in 1974.
Who Are the Top 10 Highest Goal Scorers in Football History?
With over 870 goals at club and international level combined, Cristiano Ronaldo is the top goalscorer of all time.
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) – 878 gols (2002-presente)
- Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 826 gols (2004-presente)
- Romário (Brasil) – 755 gols (1985-2007)
- Ferenc Puskás (Hungria/Espanha) – 724 gols (1943-1966)
- Josef Bican (Áustria/Tchecoslováquia) – 722 gols (1931-1955)
- Jimmy Jones (Irlanda do Norte) – 648 gols (1947-1964)
- Gerd Müller (Alemanha Ocidental) – 634 gols (1964-1981)
- Joe Bambrick (Irlanda do Norte) – 629 gols (1926-1943)
- Abe Lenstra (Holanda) – 624 gols (1937-1960)
- Robert Lewandowski (Polônia) – 622 gols (2008-presente)
