According to a media report, Brazilian soccer legend Pelé (82) is no longer responding to chemotherapy. Cancer treatment at the Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo has been suspended and Pelé is only receiving palliative care, the Brazilian newspaper Folha de S. Paulo reported on Saturday. For example, he received medication for the pain and shortness of breath. Palliative care includes the treatment of people with advanced disease and a limited life expectancy.

Pelé was taken to the hospital on Tuesday. His daughter Kely do Nascimiento announced that only her father's medication would be adjusted. The hospital said Pele had full control over his vital signs and was in stable clinical condition. Sports broadcaster ESPN Brasil, on the other hand, reported that Pelé had swelling all over his body. Pelé was diagnosed with a respiratory infection on Friday, which was treated with antibiotics.

On the same day, there was a moving moment at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar before the last group match of record world champions Brazil: behind a goal, fans of the South Americans held up two jerseys during the Brazilian anthem. One showed soccer icon Pelé with the legendary shirt number 10 and the message "Get well soon" ("Get well soon"). Brazil's current superstar Neymar, who supported his team in the stadium despite a foot injury, also seemed moved.

In September last year, Pelé had a tumor removed from his colon that doctors discovered during a routine examination. After the operation, Pelé was initially treated in the intensive care unit. He had to stay in the hospital for about a month after the operation. After that, Pelé was repeatedly in the hospital for chemotherapy.

Pelé's health has repeatedly raised concerns in recent years. He underwent several hip surgeries. He also had problems with his spine and knees. Two years ago he had a kidney stone removed after a urinary tract infection. Pelé played 92 international matches and won three World Cup titles with Brazil's national team (1958, 1962, 1970).