Date: June 29, 1958
Photographer: Gunnar Tinggsvall – Swedish Sports Photographer
One of the most unforgettable moments in World Cup history is captured in a photograph famously known as “Pelé’s Tears.” The image shows the legendary Brazilian footballer, Pelé, weeping with joy as he rests his head on the shoulder of his teammate, Valdir Pereira, and Brazilian goalkeeper, Gilmar dos Santos Neves. This emotional scene unfolded right after Brazil won the World Cup for the first time in its history, defeating Sweden in the final match at the Rasunda Stadium.
As the 1958 World Cup kicked off in Sweden, few could have predicted the rise of a 17-year-old player named Edson Arantes do Nascimento, or as the world would come to know him, “Pelé” — the Black Pearl. This tournament marked the beginning of Pelé’s legendary career, a journey that would establish him as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Brazil started the tournament without Pelé in the first two matches due to an injury, but the team pushed for his inclusion in the subsequent games. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, playing a crucial role in leading Brazil to the finals against host nation Sweden.
In the final match, Sweden struck first, scoring an early goal, but Brazil quickly responded and gained control. With Pelé scoring two of Brazil’s five goals, the team secured a 5-2 victory over Sweden. As the referee blew the final whistle, signaling Brazil’s triumph, Pelé broke down in tears, overcome with emotion at this monumental achievement.
Pelé’s tears were a poignant and memorable sight, prompting many to wonder about the reason behind his deep emotion. In interviews, Pelé explained that his tears were not just about winning the World Cup; they were also about fulfilling a childhood promise. As a child, Pelé had witnessed the heartbreak of the 1950 World Cup, held in Brazil. He saw his father, João Ramos do Nascimento, preparing a festive meal in anticipation of a Brazilian victory. However, Brazil’s unexpected defeat by Uruguay crushed those hopes, and Pelé saw his father cry for the first time. In that moment, young Pelé promised his father that he would win the World Cup for him one day.
Eight years later, as he prepared for the final match against Sweden, Pelé’s thoughts were with his parents. He wondered if they were listening to the game back home, as they did not have a television. The realization of his promise to his father and the joy of winning the World Cup overwhelmed him, and he began to cry tears of joy.
The photograph of Pelé’s tears quickly gained international fame, appearing in newspapers and magazines worldwide. The image’s impact was so profound that Gunnar Tinggsvall, the Swedish photographer who captured the moment, was awarded the International Press Award in 1959.
Pelé’s emotional response and the photograph that immortalized it remain a powerful reminder of the passion and dedication that define the beautiful game.
