Pele set to travel to Russia for World Cup

Brazil football great Pele, who has battled ailing health in recent years, has been cleared by doctors to travel to Russia for the World Cup, according to media reports.

The 77-year-old was given the news after undergoing intense physiotherapy to overcome back and hip problems, the Folha de S.Paulo newspaper said, citing Pele's long-time personal assistant Jose Fornos.

"He is still suffering from pain but has shown significant improvement in his capacity to get around," the newspaper said.

Pele is in high demand from sponsors and organizers to make guest appearances during the June 14-July 15 event. He will meet with his advisors next week to discuss his World Cup agenda, the newspaper said.

The only footballer to win the World Cup three times and scorer of 1281 career goals in 1363 games, Pele is regarded by many as the greatest player in history.

In recent years he has been afflicted by a series of health issues. In addition to spinal pain and complications from hip replacement surgery, the former Santos player has been hospitalized several times with prostate and kidney problems.

Brazil will begin their World Cup campaign against Switzerland in Rostov on June 17.