Will Smith Posts Instagram Pic With Pelé After Sports Legend Dies

Will Smith has returned to posting frequently on Instagram. And though the actor still struggles with the aftermath of slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars, Will seems less hesitant about what he shares on social media. For instance, when sports legend Pelé died, Smith turned to Instagram to share a selfie. 

Find out what Will posted about Pelé. And learn what other celebrities joined the actor in mourning the loss. Get all the details below.

Will Smith – Mourns Pelé’s Death With Instagram Pic

Just before the New Year, the world lost a sports legend. And it happened just days after fans cheered for Lionel Messi lifting the World Cup in Qatar. But even as some still celebrated Argentina’s victory over France in the World Cup Finals, others reacted to the news that King of Football Pelé had died, noted Essentially Sports.

And among those mourning the loss, Will Smith turned to Instagram to share a photo with the legendary sports hero. But in addition to a picture with Will and Pelé, the actor offered his thoughts in his social media caption. And he wrote, “The greatest to ever do it. Descanse em paz, Rei Pelé.” His caption translates to “Rest In Peace.”

However, many other celebrities as well as sports figures offered their thoughts on the loss of the legend. Pelé made history as the only player to lift a trio of World Cups. And he also scored a Hall Of Fame club career, with 762 club goals. 

Celebrities Honor Pelé For Inspiring Generations

But beyond numbers of goals, the sports legend served as an inspiration with his charismatic personality. And generations of players felt inspired by Pelé. For instance, Magic Johnson, known for dominating the NBA as a Los Angeles Lakers superstar and champion, turned to Twitter to share his thoughts. 

I was so thrilled to be honored at a soccer match in Brazil by Pelé. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would meet him, to be honored by him and spend time with him in his home country was one of the most special moments in my life. pic.twitter.com/rJrVz4mfaN

— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 2, 2023

And Johnson posted on Twitter, “The world is mourning the passing of the legendary fútbol/soccer player Pelé. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of those who loved him; his family, friends, former teammates, and soccer fans from around the world.” But the NBA star also reflected in another Twitter post how the soccer player changed the sport. 

“The greatest soccer player to ever live, Pelé was a driving force behind expanding the sport’s popularity around the world,” wrote Johnson. “He opened the door for athlete endorsements globally and influenced generations of superstars that are known by one name.” The post received millions of views and thousands of likes.

And from Barack Obama to President Joe Biden to Sylvester Stallone, other celebrities headed to social media to honor Pelé. For example, Stallone wrote, “PELE THE GREAT! Rest in peace! This was a good man.” The sports legend died at age 82 from colon cancer. 

Tell us what you think. How do you feel about the passing of Pelé? And after you share your views, check back on our site for more celebrity news.

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