Former Brazil captain Socrates dies at 57

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Former Brazil captain Socrates dies at 57

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Former Brazil great Socrates, the clever playmaker, died Sunday. He was 57.

04 December,2011 07:22 pm

Socrates captained Brazil at the 1982 World Cup. Known for his elegant style on the field and his deep involvement with Brazilian politics, Socrates died of septic shock resulting from an intestinal infection, according to a statement by the Albert Einstein hospital.He had been rushed to hospital on Saturday the third time in four months and had been in critical condition in an intensive care unit, breathing with the help of a ventilator.The hospital said Socrates died at 4:30 a.m. Brazilian time (0630 GMT).Socrates was twice hospitalized and placed in intensive care in the last few months, most recently in September. Both times he was admitted for a hemorrhage caused by high pressure in the vein that carries blood from the digestive system to the liver.Socrates acknowledged being a heavy drinker, even when he starred as a player in the 1980s, but said he stopped drinking earlier this year after his stints in the hospital.Dozens of Brazilian footballers expressed their sadness on Twitter moments after Socrates death was announced.Sad start to the day, retired Brazil striker Ronaldo wrote. Rest in peace Dr. Socrates.Former Brazil and Barcelona playmaker Rivaldo added on his Twitter: Sad to wake up and find out that Socrates has died.Reaction came from those outside of football, too, including three-time French Open champion Gustavo Kuerten and three-time Indy 500 winner Helio Castroneves.Great guy, Castroneves tweeted. A Brazilian who will be greatly missed.Socrates stood out on and off the field. He became a doctor after retiring from football and later became a popular TV commentator and columnist, always with unique and controversial opinions. He never denied his fondness for drinking, from the time he was a player until his final days.