'Champion of Champion' and Brazilian football icon Pele passes away at the age of 82; Ronaldo and Messi pays Tribute

Digital Desk: The Great Football Legend is no more among us, Pele was regarded as the "Champion of Champions."

Pele, a three-time World Cup champion and football superstar, died at the age of 82, his daughter confirmed on Instagram on Thursday night. The footballer rose to prominence in the game, scoring a remarkable 1,281 goals during his career.

Pele was hospitalised frequently after doctors diagnosed a tumour on his colon in September of this year. Pele was also diagnosed with a respiratory infection on his most recent visit. 

Messi, who recently won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina, paid tribute to Pele on his official Instagram account. 

Mbappe captioned a photo of himself with the Brazilian legend, "The king of football has passed us by, but his legacy will never be forgotten." 

Ronaldo expressed his condolences for Pele's passing in a lengthy Instagram message. Neymar also paid tribute to his country's hero on Instagram. 

Pele was one of football's most famous ambassadors, having made it the most popular sport in the world with his amazing skills and winning smile.

Pele was one of football's most famous ambassadors, having made it the most popular sport in the world with his amazing skills and winning smile. 

Pele joined Santos as a teenager and helped the team become one of the most well-known in sport. He enjoyed 18 magnificent years at the club, winning every Brazilian football honour. He also won two Copa Libertadores, South America's equivalent of the Champions League, and two Intercontinental Cups, an annual tournament involving the best teams from Europe and South America.

Pele made his international debut at the age of 16 and finished his career as the team's all-time leading goalscorer, with 77 goals in 92 games.