During the street celebrations that followed Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa in the opening match of the World Cup on 11 June, a duck wearing a miniature Mexico national team shirt was spotted making its way through the crowds on the busy Reforma Avenue in the capital, Mexico City.

Camera lenses did not overlook the moment — they elevated it in a flash. The duck, Merlin, became one of the stars of the World Cup, with her pictures spreading across various media outlets, and she became the unofficial mascot of Mexico's fans, ultimately receiving a visit with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

Merlin waddled onto the stage at the beginning of the president's regular morning press conference and settled into the spot where ministers and officials usually sit.

Merlin's owner, Carla Gomez, attended the presidential meeting accompanied by her two children, expressing her great joy at how far the story had come. She affirmed that the duck's appearance in global media was a source of immense pride for her and her family, as it reflects the beautiful face of Mexico and its people.

She explained that the family is currently working to register Merlin's name and image as an official trademark with the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, following the exceptional status the duck has gained during the tournament.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said that Merlin is no longer merely a duck that became famous during a football tournament, but has become a symbol of what the Mexican family represents: warmth, simplicity, and togetherness.

She noted that the world today is not only watching match results, but is also discovering Mexican culture and the values of its society through human stories such as Merlin's. She confirmed that support would be provided to the family soon, as Gomez had mentioned that her eldest son requires assistance due to his struggle with a mental illness.

Flash

On great occasions, the lens knows its way to create the right kind of stir.

Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award

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