Legendary footballer Pele is reluctant to leave his house because he cannot walk unaided.
In an interview with a local media group, his son Edinho said, "Pele was diagnosed with a urinary infection last year and his health has been deteriorating."
Pele, 79, who has been seen on a wheelchair at recent public appearances, has had problems with his hip since 2015, he added.
He holds a world record of 1,281 goals in 1,363 appearances during his 21-year career.
David Beckham knighted for services to sport and charity
David Beckham, one of Britain's most celebrated football players, was knighted by King Charles at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, recognising his decades-long contribution to sport and charitable causes.
Aryna Sabalenka challenges Nick Kyrgios in Dubai showdown
Tennis fans are in for a treat this December as WTA World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka takes on showman Nick Kyrgios in a one-off exhibition match, Battle of the Sexes: The Dubai Showdown.
Dubai Basketball continues unbeaten home run with win over Partizan
Dubai Basketball continued its perfect start in the ABA League with an 82:70 victory over Partizan in Round 5.
Sunderland's Xhaka earns draw after Ndiaye's stunner for Everton
Iliman Ndiaye scored a superb solo goal for Everton but Granit Xhaka's deflected equaliser secured a deserved point for Sunderland in their entertaining 1-1 Premier League draw at the Stadium of Light on Monday.
Rybakina enters semis, Anisimova beats Keys in WTA Finals
Elena Rybakina qualified for the WTA Finals' last four, beating an error-prone Iga Swiatek 3-6 6-1 6-0 on Monday, while Amanda Anisimova beat fellow American Madison Keys 4-6 6-3 6-2 in Riyadh.
