Written by Marcella Davi
Football is the most popular sport in Brazil. The country is internationally known for its football players and the sport is taken very seriously. Despite all the stars of The Brazilian football history, without any doubt, Pelé is the most famous sport personality that best represents the country.
Pelé was born in TrêsCorações, Minas Gerais, Brazil, on the 23 of October in 1940, and he was the oldest of three siblings. He grew up in poverty, having to work over many years as a servant in tea shops to earn extra money before gaining popularity. He was spotted by football star Waldemar de Brito, who took Pelé to Santos FutebolClube at the age of only 15 years old, where he gained fame.
Pelé is a national hero because of his brilliant football career and involvement in social issues of the country. He is all-time leading scorer of the Brazil national football team and the only footballer to be a part of three World Cup-winning squads. Pelé became world renowned for his ability in football and, in 1961, President JanioQuadros had Pelé declared a national treasure, which prevented the player from being sold to a foreign team. Thus, besides being a sports idol, Pelé has had a major influence on Brazilian culture. His humble origins and his joyful way to play football is a mixture that well represents the Brazilian people.
Despite all the fame and fortune he achieved, Pelé has not forgotten his humble origins and is also world famous for engaging in combat against poverty: he created a foundation to help poor children and he always participates in social programs in Brazil. Therefore, more than a national idol, he is an example to be followed, inspiring many youngsters not only for his formidable ability in football, but also for his involvement in social problems.
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