Chilean President Honors Pokémon TCG World Champion

Fernando Cifuentes, the 18-year-old Pokémon TCG World Champion, received an extraordinary honor: a meeting with the President of Chile. This momentous occasion took place at Palacio de La Moneda, the presidential palace, where Cifuentes and nine fellow Chilean competitors were warmly welcomed.

The group enjoyed a meal with President Boric and participated in a celebratory photo opportunity. The Chilean government expressed immense pride in their achievement, with several high-ranking officials joining in the congratulations. President Boric's Instagram post highlighted the positive social aspects of trading card games, emphasizing the camaraderie and collaborative spirit fostered within the community.

Cifuentes received a commemorative framed card featuring himself and his championship Pokémon, Iron Thorns. The card's inscription reads: "Fernando and Iron Thorns. Ability: World Champion. Fernando Cifuentes, from Iquique, made history as the first Chilean to win the Pokémon World Championships 2024 Masters Finals in Honolulu, Hawaii." President Boric's known appreciation for Pokémon (his favorite is Squirtle) adds a special layer to this recognition. Following his win, the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs presented him with a Squirtle and Pokéball plush.

A Thrilling Path to Victory

Cifuentes' journey to the championship wasn't without drama. He narrowly escaped elimination in the Top 8 after his opponent, Ian Robb, was disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct. This unexpected turn of events propelled him to the semifinals against Jesse Parker, whom he defeated before triumphing over Seinosuke Shiokawa in the finals to claim the $50,000 prize.

For more information about the 2024 Pokémon World Championships, please see our related article.