“His Happiness Was Contagious”: Michael Phelps Pays Tribute to Pele With an Emotional Message as He Remembers Meeting the Late Soccer Legend

The news of Pelè’s demise saddened the entire sports fraternity. The only soccer player to win three World Cups passed away at the age of 82. Soon after the news broke out, celebrities and fans used their social media handles to pay tribute to the black pearl. Recently, Swimming GOAT Michael Phelps took to his Instagram to share an emotional message remembering the legend.

In 2021, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, who is widely known by his nickname Pelè, was treated for colon cancer. However, his health started deteriorating in October 2022. He had been receiving treatment in the hospital for various illnesses since last month. Yesterday, Pelè’s daughter announced the news of his passing. Pelè is survived by his two sons and four daughters.

Michael Phelps pays tribute to the Brazilian soccer player

Michael Phelps took to his Instagram to share a heartfelt message, remembering “the greatest” soccer player. Phelps posted a black-and-white photo of Pelè embracing him. Adding a wholehearted message in the caption, he wrote, “The moments we had were so special… his happiness was contagious!! Rip pele”

Phelps met Pele for the first time in 2013. He had recently extended his sponsorship deal with the food joint Subway. Following this, he visited Brazil to shoot a commercial for the brand with the legendary soccer player, Pelè.

Read More: “I Can Die Now” – Brazil Legend Pele Was Relieved After Accomplishing the Mission of ‘Soccer Boom’ in the USA Back in 1977

The two legends had also surprised the fans by taking part in an in-store promotion. They also surprised kids with a visit to a clinic and gave them advice on how to have a healthy diet.

Other celebrities who shared their condolences

Phelps wasn’t the only celebrity who came forward to pay tribute to the legend. Argentinian soccer player Lionel Messi also took to his Instagram to share a photo of the legend with a “Rest in peace” message. Portuguese soccer player, Cristiano Ronaldo, shared an image of him receiving an award from the legend.

Along with this, he added a condolence message in the caption. He wrote, “My deep condolences to all of Brazil, and in particular to the family of Edson Arantes do Nascimento. A mere “goodbye” to the eternal King Pelé will never be enough to express the pain that the entire football world is currently embracing. ” Then he wrote about how Pele served as an inspiration to many. Ending his message, he shared that though the legend is no more, his legacy will live forever.

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