Brazilian football great Pelé has paid tribute to Argentina football legend Diego Maradona, who died aged 60.
“What sad news,” Pelé said on Twitter. “I lost a great friend and the world lost a legend.”
Maradona died from a heart attack after having brain surgery two weeks ago.
He was among the best players ever and who led his country to the 1986 World Cup title before later struggling with cocaine use and obesity.
Other sport stars have also paid tribute after the news of his death.
Argentine footballer Argentine professional Lionel Messi said: “A very sad day for all Argentines and for football. He leaves us but does not go away, because Diego is eternal.”
Cristiano Ronaldo said he was farewelling a friend after Maradona’s death.
“Today I say goodbye to a friend and the world says goodbye to an eternal genius,” Ronaldo said in a post on Instagram. “One of the best ever. An unparalleled magician.”
English football player Rio Ferdinand also paid tribute to his “first football hero”.
“Few people have impact over generations like this man did. The greatest, the best, the artist, the man…charismatic, a leader…A WINNER!” he said on Twitter. “One of the main reasons why I went out on my estate to kick a ball, pretending to be Diego. RIP Diego Armando Maradona”
English striker Harry Kane said it was a privilege to meet Maradona. “Very sad news. RIP Diego Maradona.”
Former England striker Gary Lineker also sent his condolences.
“By some distance the best player of my generation and arguably the greatest of all time, he said in a post on Instagram. “After a blessed but troubled life, hopefully he’ll finally find some comfort in the hands of God.”
Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt shared a photo of himself and Maradona, along with the caption: “RIP to legend #Maradona”.
