Pelé Says He Won't Be Participating in Rio-2016 Opening Due to Physical Condition
Former soccer player Pelé declared on Friday (the 5th) that he wouldn't be participating in the opening ceremony of the Rio Olympic Games.
"At this moment I'm not in physical condition to participate in the opening of the Olympics", he said, in a written note.
The biggest symbol of Brazilian sports, Pelé confirmed last Tuesday (the 2nd) that he had personally received an invitation from Carlos Arthur Nuzman, President of the COB (Brazilian Olympic Committee) to participate in the ceremony.
With Pele's withdrawal, the name of the person who will light the Olympic Pyre is undefined. In addition to Pelé, Torben Grael, a former sailing athlete, and Gustavo Kuerten, a former tennis player were both listed as participating.
See Pelé's complete note below:
"Dear Friends,
Only God is more important than my health!
In my life I've had broken bones, surgeries, pain, hospital interments, victories and losses, and I have always respected those who admire me. The responsibility for my decisions is mine alone and I have always sought to not disappoint my family and my Brazilian people.
At this moment I am not in physical condition to participate in the opening of the Olympics. As a Brazilian, I ask God to bless everyone who is participating in this event and that it be a great success that ends in peace!
Edson Arantes do Nascimento - Pelé"
Translated by LLOYD HARDER