Opinion: Pele’s game was art. He left a legacy in the world on and off the field.

gamba A freshman soccer player at Servaite High School in Anaheim and lives in Cerritos.

Pele, one of the most talented footballers of all time, has passed away, but his legacy will live on forever. I have many memories of the stories his father told me about Pele. I think that’s why this legend influences me on a daily basis both on and off the field. Not only have I been a fan of his game and watching him play to improve my football skills, but I feel he left a great legacy for the world as a great role model and inspirational athlete. I’m here.

As a recipient of the 1978 International Peace Prize, Pele made an impact off the field more than 40 years ago. However, his influence in the game of football began much earlier. As a young academy player in his father’s home country of Santos, Brazil, the locals appreciated his talent and skill since he was a teenager. The world took note of his talent when he made his debut for the national team at the 1958 FIFA World Cup in Sweden, where he scored five goals in the final and two in the final, making Brazil the first. World Cup when he led him to the title. Pele was part of the squad that brought Brazil his second title at his 1962 FIFA World Cup in Chile, becoming the first country to win back-to-back World Cups.

After that tournament, Pele had many offers and opportunities to play in Europe, but he decided to stay in Brazil to play for Santos, becoming one of South America’s most iconic players in 1962 and 1963. They won back-to-back Copa Libertadores Cup titles, a classic club competition. His club’s accolades didn’t end there, as he led his boyhood club to back-to-back International Cup titles in the same year, the equivalent of the Club World Championship at the time.

Pele has also appeared in two more World Cups. Although he failed to top the group his stage in his 1966, he led an amazing tournament performance, beating Italy in 1970 to give Brazil his third World Cup title. brought the title.

The World Cup football legend decided to retire in 1974. However, he agreed to retire to play his third season at his Cosmos in New York the following year. Even after he officially retired in 1977 and had a career full of personal records and remarkable milestones, his influence off the field was enormous. A socially conscious man ahead of his time, Pele was involved in and promoted numerous humanitarian causes around the world. He traveled around the world making people aware of his philanthropic activities supporting the health, education and economic needs of communities in need.

Growing up in a Brazilian family, I heard many great stories about Pele and other talented international players. All these athletes inspired me, but none like Pele. Listening, it definitely inspired me as a boy. Watching videos of his raw talents and skills made me feel connected and helped me improve many aspects of the game.

Unfortunately I didn’t get the chance to see it live. But after seeing his highlights, I know how beautiful his game is. Pele was a game changer. He put Brazil on the football map, created the identity of “o país do futebol” (Football Nation), and has delighted and inspired millions of children around the world. He is one of the main reasons why I love beautiful game, or ‘jogo bonito’ as they say in Brazil.

Observing his art form, I’m sure Pele left a significant gift to the world as an athlete, inspiring little kids like me and being a great role model. An act of kindness made an impact on the world. He will forever be remembered for his social influence through his football skills and vibrant smile.

Obrigado por tudo, rei.