Merlin, the pet duck in a mini Mexico shirt who has become a viral sensation and an unofficial mascot of the World Cup, officially met Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, on Monday. The feathered celebrity waddled onto the stage at the start of Sheinbaum’s regular morning press conference, taking a seat typically reserved for ministers and other officials. Unfazed by the high-profile occasion, Merlin punctuated the event with a few characteristic quacks.
“We feel very honored to be here with the president, it is an honour for us to stand before you and for the whole world to see the beautiful side of Mexico,” stated Karla Gomez, Merlin’s owner.
Merlin’s viral journey began on June 11, when he was spotted among jubilant crowds on Mexico City’s bustling Reforma avenue, celebrating the co-hosts’ 2-0 victory over South Africa in the opening game. Since that day, he has become a breakout star of the World Cup.
Gomez revealed plans to register Merlin as a trademark, hoping his newfound celebrity can support her family, particularly her eldest son who lives with mental illness. President Sheinbaum pledged assistance to Merlin’s family, though specific details regarding the support were not disclosed.
Sheinbaum emphasized Merlin’s significance, stating, “Today we brought the family that has Merlin the duck as their pet, because he has been a symbol of the World Cup, a symbol of what Mexican families stand for, of who we are as Mexican families, and that is above all else; it is what the world is seeing from Mexico today.”
Described by Gomez as the “boss” of her streetside beverage vending business, Merlin, a two-year-old duck, maintains a balanced diet but indulges in a carnitas pork taco on Sundays. Gifted to the family by a customer, he frequently wears shoes to protect his little webbed feet, a necessity given his profound love for walking.
