Pelé was famously associated with jersey number 10. The number became inseparable from his identity after he wore it for Brazil during the 1958 FIFA World Cup in Sweden.
The choice was reportedly influenced by administrative confusion rather than a carefully planned tribute. Brazil’s football officials did not submit player numbers properly, so FIFA assigned the tournament shirt numbers. Pelé, still only 17, received number 10—and turned it into the most iconic shirt number in football.
He played primarily as a forward and attacking midfielder, roles that suited the creative responsibilities later associated with number 10. Other great players, including Diego Maradona, Zico and Lionel Messi, also became linked with the number, but Pelé’s performances helped establish its legendary status. He won the 1958, 1962 and 1970 World Cups with Brazil, wearing the number during the early part of that historic career.