Who’s the GOAT of Football? President Trump Picks Pele Over Messi and Ronaldo
Who’s the GOAT of Football? President Trump Picks Pele Over Messi and Ronaldo
The Surprising Choice
The stage was set for a historic decision at the Metallif stadium on Sunday, with spectators including the US President, FIFA’s Gianni Infantino, and the First Lady, Melania Trump. DAZN journalists seized the moment to ask the President to name his “GOAT” – Greatest of All Time – in football.
Amerikan’s commander-in-chief, however, defied expectations, not opting for modern-day heavyweights Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. Instead, Trump chose a football legend, “the old-fashioned option,” as he put it – the one and only Pele.
“I will say that Pele is the greatest,” Trump added, drawing parallels with baseball legend Babe Ruth. pic.twitter.com/PO8id5tfAw
— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) July 13, 2025
Pele’s Legacy in the USA
The Brazilian icon left an indelible mark during his brief spell with the now-defunct New York Cosmos from 1975 to 1977. Although he joined the NASL side at the age of 35, Pelé’s impact was nothing short of monumental.
- He scored 37 goals in just 64 NASL matches, showcasing his enduring skills on American pitches.
- In 1977, he capped off his Cosmos career by leading them to their first (and only) NASL title, securing his last major trophy in a glittering career.
- More importantly, Pelé’s presence dramatically boosted NASL’s popularity, attracting thousands of new fans and making him the face of American football.
His celebrity status also encouraged other legendary players like Franz Beckenbauer and Giorgio Chinaglia to follow suit, further elevating the league’s prestige and quality.
President Trump’s Nostalgia
In reflecting on his choice, Trump delved into his personal memories, recalling when Pelé first arrived in the US to play for the Cosmos. “I was a young guy,” Trump said, “And I came to look at Pelé. He was fantastic!”
The GOAT Debate Continues
Trump’s sentiments undoubtedly stoked the eternal “GOAT” debate among football fans worldwide. While some agree with his nostalgia-fueled pick, others argue for the modern-day superstars, pointing to their consistent performances and records.
FAQ
- Q: How long did Pelé play for the New York Cosmos?
A: He played for the Cosmos from June 3, 1975, to October 1, 1977, for a little over two years. - Q: What was Pelé’s record with the Cosmos?
A: In 64 NASL matches, he scored 37 goals and led the team to their first (and only) NASL title in 1977.
Did you know?
Pelé’s arrival in the US is credited with dramatically increasing the popularity of football in America.
Got thoughts on Trump’s GOAT pick? Share your opinion in the comments below, or join the conversation on Twitter!