Mexico's unlikely World Cup mascot, Merlin the duck, has taken centre stage at an official government press conference, charming President Claudia Sheinbaum with his irrepressible quacks. The miniature Mexico football shirt-clad bird waddled onto the podium, usurping the traditional spot reserved for ministers and officials, and promptly stole the show.
Karla Gómez, Merlin's owner, beamed with pride as she spoke to the press, her words echoing across the globe: "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." The meeting marked a poignant moment in the duck's remarkable journey from street celebrations to international fame. Gómez hopes Merlin's popularity will bring support not just for her family's business but also for her eldest son, who lives with a mental illness.
President Sheinbaum welcomed Merlin's family with open arms, acknowledging the duck as "a symbol of what Mexican families stand for" and a representation of Mexico's values. In a gesture of goodwill, the President confirmed that Merlin's family would receive assistance, although specific details remain unclear.
Merlin's ascent to stardom began on June 11th when he donned his iconic football shirt during street celebrations in Mexico City following the country's opening match victory over South Africa. Since then, the charismatic duck has captured hearts across the globe, with Gómez now mulling over trademark registration for her feathered friend.
Backstage, Merlin is a pampered celebrity: he enjoys a balanced diet but has a penchant for pork tacos on Sundays and is often seen sporting protective shoes to safeguard his webbed feet. As Gómez affectionately puts it, the two-year-old duck is the "boss" of her family's street-side beverage business.