The viral sensation of the World Cup, Merlin the Duck, drew attention when he playfully pecked at Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum during their meeting.
Merlin gained fame for donning a Mexico jersey while celebrating on the streets after the co-hosts’ 2-0 victory against South Africa.
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Fans have quickly embraced Merlin, the duck who has informally become the World Cup mascot.
His rise to fame led to an exciting opportunity to meet President Sheinbaum.
Merlin was the highlight of the 63-year-old’s morning press conference held in Mexico City.
The audience was delighted as he waddled over to Sheinbaum.
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However, when Sheinbaum reached out to pet him, Merlin surprised her with a peck.
Fortunately, Sheinbaum quickly pulled back her hand, avoiding any harm.
Merlin’s owner, Carla Gomez, later expressed her pride in the opportunity to meet the president.
Gomez remarked: “We are incredibly honored to meet the president; it’s a privilege to represent the beautiful side of Mexico to the world.”
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Sheinbaum also praised Merlin as a new national symbol.
She stated: “Today we have the family that owns Merlin the duck, as he symbolizes the World Cup and represents what Mexican families stand for; this is how the world sees Mexico today.”
The two-year-old Merlin enjoys tacos every Sunday.
Gomez, a street vendor, takes pride in her working-class roots.
Merlin was a gift from a customer and loves helping her.
Gomez shared that Merlin’s sudden rise to fame has been the “best thing that has ever happened to us.”
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