Brazil's invincible football legend, Pele passed away at the age of 82.

Pele, the Brazilian king of football who won a record three World Cups and became one of the most commanding sports figures of the last century has passed away at the age of 82.

The former Brazil, Santos and New York Cosmos striker, Pele died after being hospitalised at the Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo since November 29 due to his battle with colon cancer.

Widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, Pele is the only man to have won the World Cup on three occasions, as he helped Brazil to success at the 1958, 1962 and 1970 tournaments, also winning the Golden Ball for best player at the latter.

During a 21-year playing career, he is said to have scored 1,283 goals in 1,363 senior matches for clubs and country, although that number is disputed given it included unofficial friendlies and tour matches.

Pele, whose real name was Edson Arantes do Nascimento, will be remembered forever for his wide-ranging accomplishments, both on and off the football field.