"The Best Moment of This World Cup"... Duck in Mexican Jersey Becomes an SNS Star

A Duck Strolls the Streets in a Mexico Jersey
Photos and Videos Go Viral with Millions of Views

Following Mexico's victory in the World Cup opening match, a duck wearing the national team jersey has emerged as an 'unofficial mascot.'

According to AP News on June 16 (local time), a two-year-old duck named Merlin, who lives in Mexico City, recently captured attention on social media by strolling the streets in a Mexican national team uniform. Related photos and videos have garnered millions of views, with online users commenting, "Let's bring Merlin to the stadium," "Already a national treasure," and "The best moment of this World Cup," among other reactions.

Merlin's popularity soared particularly after Mexico defeated South Africa in the World Cup opener. Making an appearance among fans cheering in the streets, Merlin became a sensation online and has even earned the nickname 'unofficial mascot' of the tournament.

The duck 'Merlin' trending on social media. Photo by AP News

Although Merlin is now gaining worldwide attention thanks to the World Cup, he was already well-known in Mexico City. This is because his owner, Karla Gomez, takes him along every weekend while selling bottled water and beverages in the city center. It is reported that both locals and tourists often line up to take photos with Merlin when they spot him. Gomez said, "We never leave Merlin home alone. He is always with us," adding, "Merlin is family."

However, Gomez admitted to being surprised by the sudden fame. She said, "Merlin was already famous as the duck who sold bottled water," and "He always accompanied us, but I never imagined he would cause such a sensation." With Merlin's skyrocketing popularity, it has been reported that he recently participated in photo shoots and advertisements with officials from the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA).

Gomez expressed her hope that Merlin would continue to bring good luck to Mexico, stating, "Merlin is the most passionate fan of the Mexican national team."

Meanwhile, Mexico, which is co-hosting this World Cup along with the United States and Canada, secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the opening match held in Mexico City on June 11. Mexico is set to face Korea, led by head coach Hong Myung-bo, in their second group stage match on June 18 (10 a.m. KST on June 19).

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.