King In Life

Twenty years early, Pelé is named Sportsman of the Century by 20 sports newspapers around the world.

Pelé plays in a farewell match for former Cosmos team-mate Franz Beckenbauer. Cosmos beat the NASL All Stars 3-2.

Pelé attends the red-carpet premiere of his film Escape to Victory with new girlfriend Xuxa.

650 British journalists vote Pelé Best Sportsman of the Century at a ceremony in London.

Pelé is named Athlete of the Century by French publication L’Équipe – 19 years before the end of the century.

Pelé meets President Ronald Reagan at the White House to promote soccer in the United States. ‘Nice to meet you. I am Ronald Reagan, president of the United States,’ he says. ‘You don’t have to introduce yourself, because everybody knows who you are.’

Pelé and other former Cosmos stars participate in an exhibition match against the current Cosmos team. Pelé plays in defence as his team lose 6-2.

Pelé has an audience with Pope John Paul II at the Vatican in Rome, Italy.

Pelé is guest of honour at a Football League vs. Rest of the World match at Wembley Stadium, London, as part of an all-star match to mark the hundredth anniversary of the English league.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu meets Pelé on a visit to Brazil. Pelé gives him a message to relay to President Botha, urging him to release Nelson Mandela from prison.