Cristiano Ronaldo insists "the entire football world" is in pain after "eternal King" Pele passed away aged 82.
Three-time World Cup winner Pele has passed away following a battle with cancer. He was re-admitted to hospital in November and given palliative care, with his family announcing the sad news on Thursday. Gary Lineker and others have paid tribute to Pele.
Like Ronaldo, Pele is considered as one of the greatest footballers ever to play the beautiful game. The Portugal international, 37, has recognised the Brazilian's profound impact on the sport and has offered his condolences with a moving post on social media.
"My deep condolences to all of Brazil, and in particular to the family of Edson Arantes do Nascimento," wrote Ronaldo on Instagram. "A mere "goodbye" to the eternal King Pele will never be enough to express the pain that the entire football world is currently embracing.
"An inspiration to so many millions, a reference yesterday, today and forever. The love you always showed me was reciprocated in every moment we shared even from distance. He will never be forgotten and his memory will live forever in each and every one of us football lovers. Rest in peace King Pele."
News of Pele's passing broke on Thursday. His official Twitter account posted: "Inspiration and love marked the journey of King Pele, who peacefully passed away today. Love, love and love, forever."
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Pele was surrounded by his loved ones as he passed away. His daughter Kely Nascimento wrote on Instagram: "Everything we are is thanks to you. We love you infinitely. Rest in peace."
England legend Lineker was one of the first to pay tribute to Pele. He told BBC Sport: "Well, Pele's hugely significant in not only the development of football, but also in football itself and the enjoyment of football - which is the most important thing.
"It's an entertainment business, and he was one of the great entertainers - through his pure skill, talent and ability. He was also a proven goalscorer. In that sense, he was slightly different perhaps to someone like [Diego] Maradona and even [Lionel] Messi - who are more creative possibly.
"But Pele was an out-and-out goalscorer, and he's played a huge part in football. The name Pele is just synonymous with football."
Kylian Mbappe, meanwhile, tweeted: "The king of football has left us but his legacy will never be forgotten. RIP KING."
Geoff Hurst, who faced Pele during their playing days, tweeted: "I have so many memories of Pele, without doubt the best footballer I ever played against (with Bobby Moore being the best footballer I ever played alongside). For me Pele remains the greatest of all time and I was proud to be on the the pitch with him. RIP Pele and thank you."
