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 remarkable event 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 accomplishments, with several high-ranking officials joining the President in congratulating the players. President Boric's Instagram post highlighted the positive social impact of trading card games, emphasizing the community and friendship fostered through competition.
Cifuentes received a unique, framed card featuring himself and Iron Thorns, his championship Pokémon. The card's inscription reads: "Fernando and Iron Thorns. Ability: World Champion. Fernando Cifuentes, from Iquique, made history as the first Chilean world champion at the Pokémon World Championships 2024 Masters Finals in Honolulu, Hawaii." President Boric's known appreciation for Pokémon (his favorite is Squirtle) adds a delightful layer to this recognition. Following his victory, the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs gifted him a Squirtle and Pokéball plushie.
Cifuentes' Journey to Victory: A Narrow Escape
Cifuentes' path to victory wasn't without drama. He narrowly avoided 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, ultimately securing the $50,000 grand prize and the championship title over Seinosuke Shiokawa.
For more information on the 2024 Pokémon World Championships, please see our related article.
