Tim Payne, New Zealand's Viral World Cup Star, Set to Join Paraguay's Olimpia

Tim Payne, the 38-year-old New Zealand defender who became an unexpected social media sensation during the World Cup, is set to leave Wellington Phoenix Football Club to join Paraguay's reigning champion Olimpia. The move was confirmed to The Associated Press on Tuesday by a source with knowledge of the negotiations, though the Paraguayan club has not yet made an official announcement. Financial terms of the contract have not been disclosed.

Payne's rise to prominence began when Argentine influencer El Scarso launched a campaign to make the least-known player at the World Cup famous, identifying Payne based on his minimal social media presence. The initiative resonated globally, with his Instagram following exploding from just under 5,000 to more than 5.8 million followers. The phenomenon has extended beyond social media, inspiring a supportive song that includes the refrain "no Payne, no gain."

The defender started for New Zealand in the team's opening Group G match against Iran on Monday, a 2-2 draw. Despite Payne's newfound celebrity status, the All Whites have yet to record a victory across their three World Cup appearances. Olimpia, his new destination, represents one of South American soccer's most traditional and successful clubs.