sports
Duck in Mexico Jersey Goes Viral After Video of World Cup Celebration
A two-year-old duck named Merlin has drawn widespread attention during the World Cup after appearing in celebrations on Reforma Avenue. The duck, owned by a Mexico City street vendor, met President Claudia Sheinbaum and was named an official ambassador for the host city.
Jun 25, 1:20 PM·1m read1 source
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Merlin, a two-year-old duck living in Mexico City, went viral after video showed him on Reforma Avenue celebrating Mexico’s 2-0 win over South Africa on June 11. The duck wore a form-fitting Team Mexico jersey and tiny socks during the footage. Karla Gomez, a street beverage vendor, received Merlin as a gift from a customer two years ago.
She named the duck after the mythical wizard because the family experienced positive changes after his arrival. Merlin lives with Gomez’s family, participates in their vending business, and eats fruit, vegetables, crickets, fish, and occasional tacos. Mexico City appointed Merlin an official ambassador.
He appeared at President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning press conference on June 22. Sheinbaum stated that Merlin symbolizes the World Cup and Mexican families. Merlin has appeared on television programs and overshadowed FIFA’s official Mexico mascot, Zayu the Jaguar.
A Canadian store created merchandise modeled on the duck. Team Mexico’s third match of the tournament was scheduled for June 24. Gomez’s 14-year-old son Cristian Gomez said Merlin is part of the family.
@NBCNews reported the details of Merlin’s rise in popularity.
