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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Ronald Blum

Pelé remembered for transcending soccer around world

AP2008

Pelé was remembered for a life beyond the field, for transcending the sport of soccer and becoming perhaps the most well-known person on Earth.

“Before Pelé, ’10′ was just a number,” current Brazil forward Neymar wrote following the soccer great's death Wednesday at the age of 82. "That line, beautiful, is incomplete. I would say that before Pelé soccer was just a sport. Pelé changed everything. He transformed soccer into art, entertainment. He gave voice to the poor, to the Black and above all he gave Brazil visibility. Soccer and Brazil elevated their standing thanks to the King! He is gone, but his magic will endure.”

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