Remembered for transcending the sport around the world

NEW YORK — Pele was remembered for a life beyond the field, for transcending the sport of soccer and becoming perhaps the most well-known person on Earth.

"Before Pele, '10 was just a number," current Brazil forward Neymar wrote following the soccer great's death Thursday at the age of 82. "That line, beautiful, is incomplete. I would say that before Pele soccer was just a sport. Pele changed everything. He transformed soccer into art, entertainment. He gave voice to the poor, to the Black and above all he gave Brazil visibility. Soccer and Brazil elevated their standing thanks to the King! He is gone, but his magic will endure."

Pele scored 12 goals in 14 World Cup matches and is the only three-time world champion, winning titles in 1958, 1962 and 1970. His death was especially impactful for generations of Brazilian players who idolized him.