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 welcomed.

The group enjoyed a meal with President Boric and participated in a photograph session. Government officials expressed their pride in the players' achievements at the World Championships. President Boric's Instagram post highlighted the positive social aspects of trading card games, emphasizing their role in fostering collaboration and friendship.

Cifuentes received a commemorative framed card featuring himself and Iron Thorns, his championship Pokémon. The card's inscription reads (translated from Spanish): "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 Pokémon fandom adds an interesting layer to the story. A known fan himself (favoring Squirtle), he received a Squirtle plushie from the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs following Cifuentes' victory.

Cifuentes' Path to Victory: A Near Miss

Cifuentes' journey wasn't without drama. He narrowly escaped elimination in the Top 8, benefiting from Ian Robb's disqualification for unsportsmanlike conduct. This unexpected turn led him to the semifinals against Jesse Parker, whom he defeated, ultimately securing the $50,000 grand prize and the title over runner-up Seinosuke Shiokawa.

For further details about the 2024 Pokémon World Championships, please refer to our related article.