Who is Marcia Aoki? Meet Brazilian soccer star Pelé's wife

Marcia Aoki, born in 1966, is a prominent entrepreneur of Japanese-Brazilian heritage. She gained recognition worldwide as the third wife of the late Brazilian football legend, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, widely known as Pele.

Hailing from Penápolis, São Paulo, Brazil, Marcia grew up in a close-knit family of four, including her sibling and parents. With her Asian roots, she holds Brazilian citizenship and stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches. Media sources indicate that she practices the Christian faith.

Throughout her life, Marcia has ventured into various business endeavors, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and determination. Her accomplishments and contributions have brought her both success and admiration.

At the moment, the entire world is mourning the loss of Brazilian football legend Pelé. The three-time World Cup winner passed away at the age of 82. His daughter Kely Nascimento announced the sad news of his death on the social media platform Instagram.

Edson Arantes do Nascimento, popularly known as Pelé had been battling cancer for a while and recently his health condition deteriorated. He was admitted to the hospital on November 29, 2022, and he left for the heavenly abode a month later on December 29, 2022.

On the other hand, when we talk about the personal life of Pelé, he is survived by his third wife Marcia Aoki, and his several kids. Continue reading further to know more about the love life of the football legend.

Marcia Aoki biography

Marcia Cibele Aoki, born in 1966, is a prominent entrepreneur of Japanese-Brazilian heritage. She gained recognition worldwide as the third wife of the late Brazilian football legend, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, widely known as Pele.

Marcia Aoki age

Marcia Aoki was born in 1966, and while the specific date and month of her birth are not publicly disclosed, she is currently 57 years old as of 2023.

Marcia Aoki career

Marcia Aoki has forged a successful career as an entrepreneur, specifically in the importation and distribution of top-notch medical equipment in São Paulo and various other parts of Brazil.

Following her university education, Aoki embarked on her professional journey with the support of her father, Paulo Aoki. Together, they established a business dedicated to importing and supplying healthcare resources. Over time, her enterprise flourished, leading to valuable collaborations with public and private institutions throughout South America.

Marcia’s dedication to delivering high-quality medical equipment has positioned her as a respected figure in the industry. Her commitment to excellence and strategic partnerships has contributed to the advancement of healthcare services in the region she serves.

Marcia Aoki family

Marcia Aoki comes from a family of Japanese descent. Her parents, Paulo and Isaura Aoki, were both of Japanese nationality and lived and worked in Sao Paulo prior to her birth. Her mother, Isaura Aoki, pursued a career as a pediatrician, while her father, Paulo Aoki, was an entrepreneur.

Marcia has a close bond with her brother, Carlos Aoki, as they grew up together. Their shared experiences have fostered a strong relationship between them.

Marcia Aoki and Pele

Marcia Aoki, the wife of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known as Pele, shares a unique and special bond with the legendary footballer. Pele, born on October 13, 1940, is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, with an illustrious career spanning over two decades.

Pele’s exceptional talent was recognized early in his career when he joined Santos FC in Brazil at the age of 15. He quickly rose to prominence, showcasing remarkable skills on the field. Pele played a pivotal role in leading Brazil to their first World Cup victory in 1958, making a significant impact by scoring six goals throughout the tournament.

Over the course of his remarkable career, Pele amassed numerous domestic and international titles, including three World Cups. His goal-scoring prowess is awe-inspiring, having netted an astonishing 1,281 goals in 1,363 games (although there is some debate surrounding the exact number). Known for his technical skills, agility, and visionary play, Pele left an indelible mark on the sport.

Beyond his football accomplishments, Pele became an ambassador for the game and a global icon. He even served as Brazil’s Sports Minister and utilized his platform to promote social causes and advance football in developing nations. His significant contributions to the sport earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the International Football Hall of Fame and the prestigious title of FIFA’s Player of the Century in 2000.

Marcia Aoki and Pele’s path crossed fortuitously at a glamorous New York party during the 1980s, although they were both in relationships with other partners at the time. Fate brought them together again years later, in 2008, when they unexpectedly encountered each other in the elevator of their shared apartment complex. Pele was going through a challenging divorce during that period.

Their third encounter took place in a similar scenario, once again in the elevator. This time, their interaction evolved into a close friendship, eventually blossoming into a romantic relationship in 2010. Despite being seen together at social events, they kept their romance discreet. In 2016, Pele, at the age of 73, and Marcia, at 41, announced their plans to wed. The couple tied the knot in a modest ceremony held in Guaruja, São Paulo, Brazil, surrounded by their loved ones.

Before his marriage to Marcia Aoki, Pele had been married twice before. His first marriage was to Rosemeri dos Reis Cholbi, which lasted for 12 years and resulted in three children: daughters Sophia and Stephany Nascimento, and a son, Malcolm DeLuca. Pele’s second marriage was to psychologist Assyria Lemos Seixas, a gospel singer. They had twins named Joshua and Celeste in 1996, and their marriage lasted for 14 years.

During their six years of marriage, Marcia and Pele did not have children together. In the later years of their union, Pele faced health challenges, including a battle with cancer, which he openly shared with fans on social media. Sadly, on December 29, 2022, surrounded by his family, Pele passed away from colon cancer, leaving behind his wife Marcia Aoki, five children, grandchildren, and an enduring legacy.

According to Pele’s will, Marcia Aoki inherited 30 percent of his assets, which includes their residence in Guaruja, as confirmed by her attorney, Luiz Kignel. Despite the loss of her beloved husband, Marcia carries forward their memories and legacy, cherishing the time they spent together.

Pelé was married thrice

Yeah, you read that right. Pelé considered one of soccer’s greatest players, walked down the aisle a total of three times. First, he tied the knot with Rosemeri dos Reis Cholbi in the year 1966.

Pelé and his former partner Rosemeri dos Reis Cholbi welcomed three kids together: Kelly Cristina born on January 13, 1967, Jennifer born in 1978, and their son Edson (“Edinho”, born on August 27, 1970.)

As per a report by The List, Rosemeri was not a fan of Pelé’s wandering eye. While being married to Rosemeri, Pelé fathered a child with another woman. The pair got divorced in 1982.

Later on, Pelé went on to marry psychologist and gospel singer Assíria Nascimento. The couple exchanged their vows in the year 1992. The pair had twins together in 1996. They named their twins: Joshua and Celeste.

Just like his previous marriage, this one was also not built to last for eternity. The pair pulled the plug on their romance after 16 years of marriage. Their divorce got finalized in 2008.

Marcia Aoki’s net worth

Marcia Aoki, the widow of the late football legend, has built a successful career as a self-employed businesswoman. Various media reports estimate her net worth to be in the range of $2 million to $4 million.