The Enigma Behind Pele's Name: Decoding the Name of the Football Maestro
Pele, the Brazilian football icon, is a figure of universal admiration, celebrated for his extraordinary talent, unparalleled triumphs, and captivating personality. His legend transcends the pitch, captivating fans and aficionados worldwide. Yet, there persists a question that often sparks curiosity: Why is Pele called Pele? This article delves into the origins and various interpretations surrounding this mysterious name.
Different Perspectives:
1. **Origin from His Nickname:
The most prevalent explanation posits that Pele's birth name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, yet he was affectionately known as "Pele" since childhood. This perspective suggests that "Pele" is a diminutive of the Portuguese word "pequeno," meaning " *** all" or "little." His mother bestowed this name upon him, believing he was undersized for his age. Over time, the nickname transformed into his stage name and became globally recognized.
2. **Influence of African Mythology:
An intriguing theory posits that Pele's name has its roots in African mythology. It is believed that "Pele" is derived from the African sun god, also named "Pele." This connection implies that Pele, as a football prodigy, embodies the sun's radiance, aligning with his exceptional abilities and the profound influence he exerted on the sport.
3. **A Combination of Two Names:
Some sources suggest that Pele's name is a fusion of two Portuguese words. "Pe" signifies "little" or " *** all," while "Le" is a shortened form of "Leão," meaning "lion." This interpretation suggests that Pele's name represents his compact build and the lion-like strength and agility he displayed on the football field.
4. **The Influence of His Father:
Another theory posits that Pele's name reflects his father's aspirations. Pele's father, Joao Ramos do Nascimento, was a professional footballer. It is believed that he named his son "Pele" to honor his own accomplishments and to signify the hope that Pele would also excel in football.
5. **A Name Chosen by Pele Himself:
There is also a belief that Pele himself selected the name "Pele" as his stage name. He desired a name that would resonate with the public and encapsulate his football prowess. The name "Pele" became synonymous with his legend, and he embraced it with pride.
Different Related Questions:
1. **Why is Pele known as the King of Football?
Pele is hailed as the King of Football for his unparalleled skills, numerous titles, and the transformative impact he had on the sport. He secured three World Cups, a record in itself, and revolutionized the game with his playing style.
2. **How old was Pele when he made his professional debut?
An exceptionally young 16 years old, Pele made his professional debut, a testament to his prodigious talent and the fierce competition in professional football.
3. **Did Pele ever play for any club except Santos?
Yes, Pele played for the New York Co *** os in the United States following his tenure at Santos. This was his final professional club before retirement.
4. **How many goals did Pele score in his entire career?
Pele scored over 1,000 goals throughout his career, a testament to his extraordinary scoring ability and the indelible mark he left on the game.
Recap and ***
The name "Pele" has intrigued football enthusiasts for decades, and its origins continue to be a matter of debate. Whether as a diminutive of "pequeno," a nod to African mythology, a blend of Portuguese words, or a name chosen by Pele himself, the name "Pele" has become synonymous with football greatness. His extraordinary skills, numerous achievements, and profound impact on the sport have cemented his legendary status, ensuring his name will be forever etched in the annals of football history.
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