Rosemeri Dos Reis Cholbi is a name inseparably tied to Edson Arantes do Nascimento — better known as Pelé, the legendary Brazilian footballer regarded by many as the greatest player of all time. While she is often introduced in public records as Pelé’s first wife, her life encompasses far more than a celebrity marriage. This article explores Rosemeri’s story in-depth — from her private beginnings, family life, struggles in the spotlight, and the legacy she holds today.
Some historical details about Rosemeri remain limited due to her longstanding preference for privacy, but what is publicly known reflects a strong figure who supported one of football’s greatest icons through pivotal years.
Who Is Rosemeri Dos Reis Cholbi?
Rosemeri Dos Reis Cholbi is primarily known as the first wife of Brazilian football legend Pelé. Their marriage lasted from 1966 to 1982, a period that spanned some of the most significant victories and global prominence in Pelé’s career.
Though she has kept her personal life largely out of the spotlight, Rosemeri’s story offers a unique human perspective on fame, family, and resilience.
Table of Quick Facts
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rosemeri Dos Reis Cholbi |
| Known For | First wife of Pelé |
| Married To | Edson Arantes do Nascimento (Pelé) (1966–1982) |
| Children | Kelly Cristina Nascimento, Edinho, Jennifer Nascimento |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Profession | Private figure / Celebrity ex-wife |
| Public Presence | Prefers privacy |
Early Life and Background
Little is officially documented about Rosemeri’s life before Pelé. She was born and raised in Brazil — but specifics such as her exact birth date, early education, and family background remain publicly undisclosed. This lack of information reflects her longstanding choice to maintain a private personal life away from media scrutiny.
Meeting Pelé and Marriage
How They Met
Rosemeri and Pelé met in Brazil — likely in the early 1960s — when Pelé was already rising as a global football star. Their courtship blossomed into marriage on 21 February 1966, when Rosemeri was in her early twenties and Pelé was around 25 years old.
At the time, Pelé was already an international icon, with FIFA championships and global tours defining his career.
Life as a Football Legend’s Wife
Being married to a sports figure of Pelé’s stature brought both admiration and intense public visibility. Rosemeri adapted to life amongst fans, media, and international travels. She stood beside Pelé during the pinnacle of his career — during matches, public appearances, and abroad after the family moved to the United States in 1975.
Family Life and Children
Rosemeri and Pelé had three children together:
- Kelly Cristina Nascimento – born January 1967
- Edinho (Edson Cholbi Nascimento) – born 1970
- Jennifer Nascimento – born 1978
These children grew up during a time of great public interest, and Rosemeri assumed the role of a dedicated mother under both private and sometimes intense public scrutiny.
Challenges in Marriage
Despite the apparent stability of their marriage for many years, problems emerged over time. Pelé’s increasing fame led to frequent travel, commercial engagements, and personal pressures that strained the relationship.
Various reports and interviews suggest Pelé admitted to infidelities during their marriage — a factor many historians believe contributed to the eventual breakup. Rosemeri, however, maintained her dignity and discretion throughout these times.
Divorce and Life After Pelé
After 16 years of marriage, Rosemeri and Pelé divorced in 1982. The divorce marked a turning point, with Rosemeri choosing to live a quieter, more private life away from headlines.
Unlike many celebrity spouses, Rosemeri stepped back from public life and focused on family, particularly the upbringing of their children and later becoming a grandmother.
Life in the Spotlight vs. Life in Privacy
While Pelé continued to maintain a public legacy until his passing in 2022, Rosemeri opted for discretion. This contrast highlights a valuable lesson about personal boundaries and self-definition beyond fame.
Legacy and Influence
Though Rosemeri dos Reis Cholbi is not widely documented in historical texts or encyclopedias, her role in Pelé’s early life and global journey remains an authentic part of football history.
Her dedication as a partner and mother shaped the early family framework that accompanied Pelé’s meteoric rise — a story often overlooked behind goals, trophies, and records.
FAQs
Who is Rosemeri Dos Reis Cholbi?
Rosemeri is best known as the first wife of football legend Pelé. Their marriage lasted from 1966 to 1982, during which they had three children together.
When did Rosemeri and Pelé marry?
They were married on 21 February 1966 in Brazil, soon after Pelé became an international football star.
How many children did Rosemeri have with Pelé?
They had three children: Kelly Cristina, Edinho (Edson), and Jennifer.
Why did they divorce?
The divorce in 1982 followed years of growing pressures within the marriage, including Pelé’s worldwide fame, frequent travel, and acknowledged infidelities during their union.
What is Rosemeri doing now?
Rosemeri has maintained a private life after divorce. She is believed to be living in Brazil, cherishing family life with her children and grandchildren.
Conclusion
Rosemeri Dos Reis Cholbi stands as a meaningful yet understated figure in the story of one of football’s greatest icons. Through her years with Pelé, she balanced family life with global fame, devoted herself to her children, and ultimately chose life away from public scrutiny.
Her story is not just about marriage to a famous figure — it’s about strength, resilience, and the quiet dignity of a life lived beyond the camera lens.
