Pele’s family has spoken out and shared photos of the football/soccer legend after his passing at the age of 82.
The Brazilian soccer icon, who has often been referred to as the GOAT, passed away on December 29 following a grueling battle with colon cancer.
The tragic news comes just days after it was revealed that the former athlete was going to spend Christmas in the hospital after doctors discovered his cancer had worsened during a reevaluation.
“The patient remains hospitalized in a common room, under the necessary care of the medical team,” a statement from the Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo read.
Now, Pele’s family announced that the soccer legend had succumbed to his illness.
“Everything we are is because of you. We love you infinitely. Rest in peace,” his daughter, Kely Nascimento, wrote as she shared a photo of her family members holding hands with the 82-year-old.
Paying the legend a touching tribute was also Pele’s grandson, Arthur Spies, who described the day his grandfather died as the most painful day of his life.
“But now all that’s left are the good moment, what Pele did for Brazil and for the world, the people that he helped and the victories he had in his career and life,” he said.
“Grandpa Dico you are my idol and always will be, no matter where you are, on Earth or in heaven… I know that wherever you are you will always be supporting and blessing me in everything in my life and will always be together with me.”
The grieving grandson continued: “I have a clear conscience that you will go to heaven with an image of me as a grandson who was very present and who always loved you very much and that I always wanted to be together with you.
“I love you very much regardless of where you are, I will always take you with me in my life, in good times and bad times, because I know that if you were here you would support me, I love you grandpa.”
Meanwhile, the soccer star’s first granddaughter, Stephany Nascimento, posted a touching message on Instagram.
“Hey grandpa, you fulfilled your mission here on earth and are now in the light! Stay with God. Everything that our family is, was thanks to you. What an honor and happiness to be your granddaughter and to have lived wonderful moments by your side and in our family. Gratitude Grandpa,” she wrote.
“Thank you for bringing my father and his brothers into the world. Thank you for choosing us to be your family. Thank you for everything you did for all of us, always going out of your way. See you soon! I love you forever.”
Our thoughts are with Pele’s family during this challenging time.