Chilean President Celebrates Pokémon TCG World Champ

Chile's 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, which included a presidential luncheon and photo opportunity, took place at Palacio de La Moneda, the presidential palace. Nine other Chilean competitors who reached the second day of the World Championships were also invited. The Chilean government expressed immense pride in their accomplishments.

President Boric, a known Pokémon fan (his favorite is Squirtle!), highlighted the positive community aspects of trading card games, emphasizing their role in fostering collaboration and friendship. Cifuentes received a personalized 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 to win the Pokémon World Championships 2024 Masters Finals in Honolulu, Hawaii."

A Dramatic Path to Victory

Cifuentes' journey to victory was far from easy. 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, ultimately claiming victory over runner-up Seinosuke Shiokawa and the $50,000 prize.

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