LEGENDARY Pele is no more. Born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, the nickname of Pele became synonymous with the game of football. The icon’s passing away has saddened millions of his fans around the world, including his Pakistani admirers, who, though they never saw the man in action in his heyday, hold him in great esteem.

The most ardent lovers of football in the country, especially in Karachi’s Lyari area, always respected the man for his mastery over the game.

Pele was indeed one of the greatest and extraordinarily gifted players to have graced the game he called ‘a beautiful game’ in his autobiography that was published in 1977.

He won three World Cups for his country with his athleticism, dazzling moves, agility and samba-like flair that earned him a respected place in the game’s hall of fame.

In the wake of his remarkable career, he led a very meaningful and productive life, doing multifarious and worthwhile tasks. He was a politician, a wealthy businessman and an ambassador for world bodies, including the United Nations.

Since he was a multi-talented man, he showed his tremendous potential in movies and soap operas. He even composed songs and recorded CDs of popular Brazilian music. In recognition of his meritorious services to the game of football, he was awarded honorary British knighthood in 1997.

Although not a public holiday, Pelé Day is observed in Santos, Brazil, on Nov 19 each year to recognise the date of his 1,000th goal.

The game of soccer, too, is proud to have had a player of Pele’s stature to have given it prestige. Indeed, players like him are born once in a millennium. He was great.

Khadim Hussain Subhpoto
Hyderabad

Published in Dawn, January 5th, 2023