At the final of the FIFA Club World Cup between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, former U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines off the pitch with a bold declaration in an exclusive interview — naming Brazilian legend Pelé as his greatest football player of all time.
Speaking from MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where he made a high-profile appearance at the global event, Trump praised Pelé’s unmatched legacy and influence on the sport.
“Pelé was a true icon. He played with incredible heart, style, and grace. No one did it quite like him,” Trump said during the halftime conversation. “He was a global ambassador for the sport before anyone else really was.”
The former president, known more for his influence in politics and business than football, surprised many with his passionate remarks about the Brazilian star, who passed away in 2022. Trump described Pelé as “not only the best of his time but the best the world has ever seen.”
His comments come amid ongoing debates among fans and pundits over who deserves the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) title in football — with names like Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo often dominating the conversation. Trump’s choice of Pelé highlights the enduring reverence for the three-time World Cup winner, whose career helped shape modern football and inspired generations across continents.
The exclusive interview added an unexpected cultural moment to the night of world-class football, as Chelsea lifted the Club World Cup trophy after a dramatic win over PSG — with Trump himself presenting the cup.
Pelé, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, remains a towering figure in the sport, and Trump’s remarks serve as a reminder of the lasting impact the Brazilian legend continues to have on global football.
