What Did Pele Say After Maradona Died? The Football Legend's Touching Words
A Moment That Shook the Football World
When Diego Maradona passed away on November 25, 2020, the world stopped—at least for football lovers. The Argentine legend, often seen as one of the greatest (if not the greatest), died of a heart attack at 60. It was more than just a loss for Argentina. It was a global moment of mourning.
Naturally, everyone turned to another football icon: Pelé, the Brazilian king of the sport. Would he speak? Would he compare? Would he stay quiet? Nope—he opened his heart.
Pelé’s Emotional Reaction to Maradona’s Death
The Viral Tribute on Social Media
Soon after the news broke, Pelé took to Twitter and Instagram. His message was short, but it went straight to the soul:
"I lost a great friend and the world lost a legend. One day, I hope we can play ball together in the sky."
That line—"play ball together in the sky"—exploded everywhere. News outlets picked it up, fans shared it like wildfire. It was poetic. Simple. And somehow... perfect. Not too heavy, not too cold. Just human.
No Rivalry, Just Mutual Respect
People often liked to pit Maradona and Pelé against each other. Brazil vs. Argentina. Flair vs. fire. But in reality? There was respect. Some tension, sure (they weren't exactly best buddies at every point). But when it mattered most, Pelé chose grace.
He later told Brazilian media that Maradona "was an incredible talent, someone who brought joy to millions." That’s not something you say about just anyone.
The Complex Relationship Between Pelé and Maradona
Not Always Roses and Sunshine
Okay, let’s be real for a second—they clashed. Over the years, they traded jabs. In 2000, both were named FIFA's Player of the Century. Pelé was voted by experts, Maradona by fans. That stung both of them a little.
Maradona once called Pelé “a puppet” for FIFA. Harsh? Yeah. But emotions ran high in that era.
Pelé, on his side, had criticized Maradona’s off-pitch behavior, especially his well-known drug issues.
But hey—legends carry weight. They clash, they bark, and sometimes they bite. That’s part of their mythos.
Time Healed the Wounds
As the years went by, something shifted. In 2016, during an event in Paris, they hugged. A big, showy hug. Cameras went wild. Fans went wilder. It was like two planets colliding—and somehow finding orbit.
Pelé later said:
"We had our differences, yes, but above all, we respected each other deeply."
And when Maradona passed? All that old tension—gone. Only warmth remained.
Why Pelé’s Words Still Matter
Football Is Bigger Than Rivalry
In a sport where fans go to war over club colors, Pelé’s words reminded everyone: this game is about joy, about shared memories, not about ego.
That one line—“play ball in the sky”—was almost spiritual. Not religious per se, but something close. It made people cry. It made people smile. And, honestly, it made people think.
Legacy Speaks Louder Than Stats
Stats are great. Goals, trophies, awards—they matter. But what people remember? It’s the heart. Pelé didn’t talk numbers. He talked friendship. Loss. Love of the game. That sticks with people way longer than a goal tally.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Words
We often expect celebrities to deliver big, polished tributes. But Pelé didn’t go overboard. He didn’t fake emotion or try to steal the spotlight. His message was raw. Kind of off-the-cuff, maybe even a bit clumsy in its simplicity—but that’s why it worked.
It wasn’t about who was better. Or who won more. Or who messed up more. It was one legend saying goodbye to another. With honesty. With class.
And yeah, maybe, just maybe—wherever they are now—they are playing ball again.
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| Male Teens: 13 - 20 Years) | ||
|---|---|---|
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