When you think of soccer royalty, one name undoubtedly stands out: Pele.
Often hailed as the King of Soccer, this Brazilian legend has not only dazzled fans with his extraordinary skills on the pitch but has also built a life of opulence and grandeur off it.
Curious about how this iconic figure enjoys his wealth?
Let’s dive into the fascinating details of Pele’s lavish lifestyle.
Born in 1940 in the quaint town of Três Correios, Brazil, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known to the world as Pele, rose from humble beginnings to become a household name.
His soccer journey began in childhood, but it was his signing with Santos Futebol Clube that catapulted him to stardom.
Leading his team to numerous championships, Pele soon became a key player for the Brazilian national team during its golden era, famously becoming the youngest athlete to win a World Cup.
Throughout his illustrious career, he scored an astonishing 1,283 goals, a feat recognized by Guinness World Records, and was voted the best player in the world seven times.
Pele’s success on the field translated into significant financial rewards, allowing him to indulge in a life of luxury.
His real estate portfolio is impressive, starting with a mansion in the Hamptons, New York, purchased in 1979 for $156,000—equivalent to about $600,000 today.
This stunning property, nestled on a one-acre plot, boasts a picturesque view of the lake, spacious interiors, and a pool for those hot summer days.
After years of ownership, he sold the mansion in 2018 for a whopping $2.85 million, demonstrating a keen eye for real estate investment.
Currently, Pele resides in a lavish mansion located in Jardim Acapulco, São Paulo, a luxurious area where fellow soccer star Neymar Jr. also lives.
During interviews, Pele has shared glimpses of his home, showcasing a large living room adorned with art and a pool table.
The outdoor space is equally impressive, featuring a vast pool surrounded by lush greenery and even a soccer field for family games.
While the exact value of this property remains undisclosed, homes in this exclusive neighborhood average around $4 million.
Pele’s taste in automobiles reflects his status as a global icon.
His first car was a Volkswagen Beetle, a classic model that can fetch over $15,000 today.
He also owned a luxurious Aero Willis 2600, gifted to him after a significant victory, which now has a value of around $20,000.
Among his prized possessions is a 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250, awarded for his 1,000th goal, valued at over $25,000 today.
His collection includes other notable vehicles, such as the Mercedes 280S and the convertible 450SL, both of which have become collectibles in their own right.
With wealth comes the ability to indulge in extravagant luxuries.
Pele is often seen sporting high-end watches, including a $30,000 Rolex Datejust and a $70,000 Rolex Day-Date in yellow gold.
Recently, he became an ambassador for Hublot, flaunting their exquisite timepieces, such as the Hublot Big Bang UEFA Euro, priced around $6,000.
When it comes to travel, Pele opts for private jets, specifically the Bombardier Global 6000, a state-of-the-art aircraft that accommodates up to 18 passengers in unparalleled comfort.
Pele’s legacy extends beyond the soccer field, with his memorabilia fetching incredible prices.
In a historic auction, he sold 2,000 items, including a $23,000 Santos jersey and a $450,000 World Cup winner’s medal, raising over $5 million.
Notably, a replica of the Jules Rimet trophy went for $550,000.
Pele pledged a portion of the proceeds to benefit a prominent children’s hospital in Brazil, showcasing his commitment to giving back.
In addition to his tangible assets, Pele remains a lucrative figure in the world of endorsements.
Despite retiring from professional soccer, his celebrity status continues to generate income.
With millions of followers on social media platforms, brands are eager to align themselves with his iconic image.
Major companies like Puma, Volkswagen, and Coca-Cola have invested heavily in advertising partnerships with him, contributing significantly to his wealth.
At the peak of his career, Pele commanded a staggering salary, reportedly earning around $2 million per year while playing for the New York Cosmos.
However, his earnings today, primarily from endorsements, far exceed his playing days.
In 2015 alone, Forbes estimated his earnings at approximately $15 million, underscoring the financial power of his brand.
While the exact figure of Pele’s net worth remains somewhat elusive, estimates suggest it hovers around $100 million.
This impressive sum pales in comparison to what he could have earned if he were playing today, with projections indicating he could command an annual salary of approximately $223 million—a figure that would solidify his status as a billion-dollar athlete.
Pele’s life is a testament to how talent, hard work, and savvy investments can lead to a legacy that transcends the sport.
As he continues to inspire generations, his story serves as a reminder that greatness can be measured not just in goals scored but also in the impact one leaves behind.
