Tim Payne’s Match-Worn Jersey Draws $3,270 Bid After Stunning Rise in Fame

Tim Payne, a 32-year-old defender from New Zealand, has become a sensation in the soccer world after his debut with Club Olimpia, a prominent Paraguayan soccer club. The jersey he wore during his first match has attracted considerable interest, with bidding reaching over 21 million guaraní, approximately $3,270, since it was auctioned online five days ago. Bidding will close on Thursday.

Payne’s journey to fame has been remarkable. Just before the World Cup, he had a modest following of over 4,000 on Instagram. However, he quickly became one of the tournament’s biggest social media personalities, thanks in part to Argentine influencer Valen Scarsini, known as El Scarso, who dubbed him the World Cup’s “least-known soccer player.” Scarsini encouraged his 2 million followers across various platforms to support Payne, leading to a surge in followers that now exceeds 5.4 million.

Before his rise, Payne had largely played for lower-profile clubs in New Zealand and Australia, including a two-year stint with England’s Blackburn Rovers, from which he did not make a significant appearance due to work-permit issues. His move to Olimpia in June marked the end of a seven-year era with Wellington Phoenix in the Australian A-League.

In his debut match against Rubio Ñu on August 2, Payne quickly made an impact by scoring shortly after coming off the bench, contributing to a 5-0 victory. His signed jersey from this match is now attracting attention typically reserved for more established stars, though it falls short of the high prices commanded by jerseys of renowned players like Lionel Messi.

Payne expressed his sentiments regarding the auction, stating, “I know exactly what it means to wear these stripes and play in this shirt, and that’s why I want to give it to a true Olimpista [Olimpia fan].” This heartfelt message has resonated with fans, further bolstering the excitement surrounding his auction.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn