When the world remembers Pelé, it often focuses on his dazzling goals, historic World Cup wins, and status as one of the greatest athletes of all time. But behind the spotlight was Rosemeri Dos Reis Cholbi, the woman who shared his life during some of his most defining years. Her story is not just about being the wife of a football legend but about resilience, grace, and the ability to maintain stability amid global fame.
Early Life and Marriage to Pelé
Born in Brazil, Rosemeri Dos Reis Cholbi is now in her late seventies, though she has kept her exact birth date private. Her life changed forever on February 21, 1966, when she married Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known as Pelé. By then, Pelé was already a national hero in Brazil, having won two FIFA World Cups and captured the hearts of millions. Their wedding was a major event, blending Brazilian celebration with the prestige of uniting with one of the country’s most famous figures.
The couple’s marriage lasted 16 years, a remarkable span given the demands of Pelé’s career and the attention it brought. During those years, Rosemeri balanced the role of a public figure’s spouse with being the heart of the household. Her ability to manage both worlds played a crucial role in keeping their family grounded.
Family Life and Children
Rosemeri and Pelé welcomed three children together, each of whom has gone on to make their own mark. Their eldest, Kely Cristina, was born in January 1967 and became known for her work in sports diplomacy and promoting gender equality in football. Their son, Edson, arrived in 1970 and briefly pursued a football career before moving into coaching. The youngest, Jennifer, was born in 1978 and has chosen a more private life, staying out of the public spotlight.
Raising children in the glare of Pelé’s fame was no easy task, yet Rosemeri’s dedication to creating a stable environment allowed her family to thrive. She was, in many ways, the team captain at home, ensuring her children grew up with values and structure while their father traveled the globe.
Life in the Public Eye
Although Rosemeri preferred a quiet life, there were occasions when she stepped into the spotlight. One of the most notable moments came in 1973 when she accompanied Pelé to an event with then-U.S. President Richard Nixon and PepsiCo CEO Donald Kendall. Sitting at the same table as two major world figures demonstrated the rare circles she moved in during her marriage.
These moments were exceptions rather than the rule. For most of their marriage, she avoided media attention, focusing instead on supporting her husband’s career behind the scenes and managing family responsibilities.
Challenges in Marriage
Pelé’s 2021 Netflix documentary shed light on some of the challenges in their relationship. In it, Pelé openly admitted to infidelities during their marriage and acknowledged that he felt too young when he wed Rosemeri. These revelations painted a more human picture of their life together, showing that even the most celebrated couples face personal struggles.
Despite these difficulties, their marriage endured for over a decade and a half before ending in divorce in the early 1980s. What stood out in the aftermath was the mutual respect they maintained, especially for the sake of their children. They continued to co-parent and support each other’s roles in the family, showing that separation did not have to mean bitterness.
Life After Divorce
Following the split, Rosemeri chose to step away from the public sphere almost entirely. Unlike many who remain connected to celebrity culture, she kept her personal life private and did not seek media attention. There is little public information about her career or ventures after the divorce, but her lasting influence is evident in the paths her children have taken.
Today, her estimated net worth is believed to be around $500,000, a reflection of her private lifestyle and distance from public commercial ventures. In contrast, Pelé, who passed away in December 2022, had an estimated net worth of $100 million at the time of his death. While their financial standings differ greatly, Rosemeri’s legacy lies more in her role as a mother and stabilizing force during a turbulent and high-profile marriage.
Enduring Legacy
Rosemeri Dos Reis Cholbi’s story is one of quiet strength. She managed to keep her family’s foundation strong while married to one of the most famous sports figures in history. Her grace under public scrutiny, her role in raising three accomplished children, and her ability to maintain dignity through personal challenges have left an indelible mark.
Even though she has not been in the public eye for decades, her chapter in Pelé’s life remains significant. She was by his side during his prime, through triumphs and trials alike, and she played a vital part in shaping the personal life of a man whose professional achievements are etched in football history.
Rosemeri’s life serves as a reminder that the people behind great public figures often contribute just as much to their legacy. While Pelé’s name will forever be associated with brilliance on the field, Rosemeri’s name holds its own quiet place in that story—a testament to resilience, partnership, and the power of steadfast support.
