Two million followers in three days: Why this random A-League battler has become a World Cup meme
Tim Payne, a defender for Wellington Phoenix, has gained two million Instagram followers in just three days. This surge in popularity was initiated by an Argentinian influencer who sought to highlight the World Cup's least-known footballer. Payne's unexpected fame showcases the significant impact of social media on sports personalities.
- ▪Tim Payne previously had only 4,500 followers on Instagram before his sudden rise to fame.
- ▪The increase in followers was sparked by Valen Scarsini, an Argentinian influencer.
- ▪Scarsini aimed to find a player that united fans regardless of nationality, ultimately choosing Payne.
- ▪Various brands and official accounts have joined in promoting Tim Payne as a result of this social media phenomenon.
- ▪A tribute song for Tim Payne has even been created by one of his new fans.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Sydney Morning Herald.