'I deeply regret not having gone to Santos,' says Kaká after missing Pelé's funeral.
"I received from his hands the greatest individual award of my career," said the 40-year-old former player after receiving the 2007 award for best player in the world, presented by Pelé.
247 - Former player Kaká, 40, wrote a message on Instagram refuting criticism for not attending Pelé's funeral. The King of Football died on December 29th at the Albert Einstein Israelite Hospital (SP). The ceremony lasted 24 hours in Santos (SP). It began last Monday (2) and ended the following Tuesday (3). It gathered 230 people, according to the city's mayor. Doctors said the former athlete died of multiple organ failure. The former player was battling colon cancer.
"I deeply regret not having gone to Santos," said Kaká. "I received the greatest individual award of my career from his hands. That night, I said that only he could make that moment even better," he stated. "My solidarity and respect for his family are eternal, as is his story; the tributes and recognition are made in various ways."
Read the full text of the post made by Kaká:
Throughout my life I have always been proud and honored to receive much affection and respect everywhere I have been, especially from the Brazilian people.
During the World Cup, a statement I made was within a certain context, but unfortunately it spread as a criticism of the entire population. That was never my intention. Nor could it have been, especially since the Brazilian people have always treated me with great affection. I was only referring to the people who, at that moment, were rooting against an idol of the national team. I erred in the undignified way I mentioned a friend, but I have already apologized, and we can move forward together.
This statement was brought to mind again now, on the occasion of the passing and funeral of our beloved King Pelé, a person I admire immensely, and from whose hands I received the greatest individual award of my career. That night, I said that only he could make that moment even better. As a Brazilian and a lover of football, my respect and admiration will remain, and I deeply regret not having gone to Santos.
I had the opportunity to honor the King during his lifetime several times, including a private conversation between us, kindly arranged by his son. It was another special moment, among others, that I will cherish in my heart.
During the World Cup, I proposed to the FIFA president that one of the awards given by FIFA at its annual gala be named after Pelé, and I hope that this will happen.
My solidarity and respect for his family are eternal, as is his story; tributes and recognition are offered in many forms. The duty continues, and I will continue working for the development of Brazilian football, supporting future generations, because, beyond recognition, the king's legacy depends on continuity.
Finally, I would like to emphasize my love for Brazil, for the Brazilian people, and thank you all for the immense affection I have always received from you.
Thank you.
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