Ronaldo, Messi pen tribute to Pele as he passes on at 82

Brazil legend Pele has passed on at the age of 82, in a public statement released by his family on Thursday evening.

Pele, who is regarded as the greatest footballer of all time had been receiving regular treatment from doctors ever since undergoing surgery to have a tumour on his colon removed back in September 2021.

But he was readmitted to the hospital towards the end of 2022.

Following his death, football stars including Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have penned messages to the late football legend.

Messi, in a post via his Instagram account, posted a picture of him and Pele in a suit and wrote: “Rest in peace, @pele.”

On his part, Ronaldo, wrote “My deep condolences to all of Brazil, and in particular to the family of Edson Arantes do Nascimento. 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 a 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.”