Ronaldo pays tribute to ‘eternal king’ Pele after Brazilian legend tragic death

Cristiano has honoured the death of Pele with a heartfelt Instagram post in tribute to the tragic passing of football’s legendary icon.


The Portuguese forward sent his ‘condolences’ to the former Brazilian striker’s family, before adding that he ‘reciprocated’ all the love that Pele had shown him throughout his career.

Pele passed away after a battle with colon cancer at the age of 82, with numerous players both past and present joining his daughter Kely Nascimento in sending their own emotional messages after the tragic news on Thursday, December 29.


‘My deep condolences to all of Brazil, and in particular to the family of Edson Arantes do Nascimento,’ the five-time Ballon d’Or winner wrote on Instagram.

‘A mere “goodbye” to the eternal King Pelé 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 Pelé.’


Pele and Ronaldo shared an amicable relationship, with the former often sending the latter words of support throughout his career.


Earlier in 2022, the Brazil icon told Ronaldo he was looking forward to meeting with him in a congratulatory message after the 37-year-old received a special award from FIFA for breaking the international goalscoring record.

‘I’m looking forward to meeting you in person to give you my hug,’ he said.

‘I recorded this message with great care. See you soon.’

The three-time World Cup winner notched 77 goals in 92 appearances for his country, with his record only recently being matched by current talisman Neymar at the Qatar World Cup.

Several of the games most prominent figures – both past and present – have joined Pele’s daughter in paying tribute to the iconic football star.

Gary Lineker has also paid tribute to a player who many feel was the greatest of all time.