MEXICO CITY — A tame duck named Merlin, decked out in a pint-sized Mexico soccer jersey and specially made duck socks, has captured the imagination of football fans around the world, emerging as an unlikely unofficial symbol of Mexico’s World Cup run.
The little duck’s rise to fame began during outdoor celebrations in Mexico City after the co-host nation defeated South Africa 2-0 in the tournament’s opening match last week. As crowds flooded Reforma Avenue in the capital to celebrate the victory, Merlin was spotted waddling through the festivities alongside his owner.
Bystanders pulled out their phones to capture the unexpected sight, and the video quickly spread across the internet. Soon, fans were calling for Merlin to be named Mexico’s official World Cup mascot.
His owner, street vendor Karla Gomez, who typically sells drinks along Mexico City’s streets with her son Christian and their duck, had no idea the moment would go viral. “It was a normal day for us,” she said. “We thought we were passing by unnoticed, because obviously we never thought Merlin would have that boom.”
Gomez was careful to note that she isn’t looking to stir up any controversy over mascot status. “We are very respectful,” she said. “We respect the axolotl as much as the jaguar. We don’t like controversy, honestly.”
These days, Gomez has fully embraced her role as the mother of a feathered celebrity. Fans regularly stop the family to snap selfies with Merlin, who has also been photographed splashing around in public fountains to beat the heat.
“I’m Merlin’s mum. I already consider myself as such,” Gomez said. “For us it has been a surprise, truly. The fact that Merlin is the unofficial mascot of the World Cup … we feel very pleased about such a situation and above all that people love my duck.”
Taking a page from the legendary Paul the Octopus, Merlin has also tried his hand — or rather his beak — at predicting match outcomes. When presented with flags from both Mexico and South Korea, he chose Mexico’s flag.
Mexico is set to face South Korea on Thursday in Group A play, followed by a match against the Czech Republic on June 24.
