Merlin the duck unruffled after meeting president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum
The Guardian Football ·
Merlin, the pet duck in a mini Mexico shirt who has become a viral sensation and an unofficial mascot of the World Cup , met Mexico’s president on Monday. …
Merlin, the pet duck in a mini Mexico shirt who has become a viral sensation and an unofficial mascot of the World Cup , met Mexico’s president on Monday. The duck waddled on to the stage at the start of Claudia Sheinbaum’s regular morning press conference, took a seat where ministers and officials are usually seen, and unfazed by the occasion, let out a few quacks. “We feel very honoured 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 ,” said Karla Gómez, Merlin’s owner. Merlin’s fame was ignited during street celebrations after the co-hosts beat South Africa 2-0 in the opening game on 11 June, when the costumed duck was seen wandering among the crowd on the capital’s bustling Reforma avenue. Since then, Merlin has become one of the stars of the World Cup. Gómez said she is hoping to make Merlin a registered trademark and that his newfound fame can help their family, especially her eldest son who has a mental illness. The owners of Merlin the duck, Karla Gómez, Carlos Gómez and Christian Gómez pose with Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum (second left). Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images Sheinbaum said Merlin’s family will receive assistance without providing details. …
Original source: The Guardian Football