LETTERS: The death of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, fondly known as Pele, was met with sadness around the world.
The year 1966 is firmly etched in my mind because of the famous "banana free kick" that Pele conjured up in the game against Bulgaria.
He scored a wonder goal, curving the ball around the wall of defenders. It was at this World Cup that my interest in football soared. I was 12 years old then.
Pele was one of the greatest footballers ever. He accomplished something no other player has: he won the World Cup three times in a row, in 1958, 1962 and 1970.
Pele mesmerised fans the world over with his repertoire of silky and magical skills in the 1950s, 60s and 70s.
During his heyday, Pele was the only one who was on a par with Muhammad Ali, the world heavyweight pugilist, as far as popularity was concerned.
Pele, coming from humble beginnings, is a great example for poor children worldwide. There is an opportunity for any person who works hard on his football skills.
Suffice to say, he was a guiding and shining light in the development of football.
THIAGARAJAN MATHIAPARANAM
Klang, Selangor
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times