Chilean President Honors Pokémon TCG World Champion

The Pokémon TCG World Champion, Fernando Cifuentes, received a prestigious honor when he met with the President of Chile. This remarkable journey from a Pokémon TCG enthusiast to a world champion culminated in a historic meeting at Palacio de La Moneda, the official residence of the President.

A Historic Meeting at Palacio de La Moneda

At the young age of 18, Fernando Cifuentes, the reigning Pokémon TCG World Champion, was invited to the presidential palace alongside nine other Chilean competitors. This invitation came on a Thursday, marking a significant moment in their careers. The group was warmly welcomed at Palacio de La Moneda, where they enjoyed a hearty meal with the President and took part in a lively photo session. The Chilean government expressed immense pride and admiration for these talented players, who had advanced to the second day of the competition. Esteemed government officials were also present to greet and congratulate the group.

President Boric took to Instagram to highlight the positive impact of trading card games on young people, noting how these communities foster collaboration and friendship through competition.

In addition to the recognition, Cifuentes was presented with a large, framed custom card featuring himself and Iron Thorns, the Pokémon he used to clinch the championship. The card's inscription, translated from Spanish, reads: "Fernando and Iron Thorns. Ability: World Champion. Fernando Cifuentes, hailing from Iquique, made history as the first Chilean to be crowned world champion during the Pokémon World Championships 2024 Masters Finals in Honolulu, Hawaii."

The President of Chile, a known Pokémon enthusiast, has a special connection to the game. During his 2021 presidential campaign, he expressed his fondness for Squirtle, and upon his victory, the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs gifted him a Squirtle and Pokéball plushie as a token of appreciation for his love of the Pokémon anime.

Cifuentes’ Near-Elimination and Subsequent Win

Cifuentes' path to victory was not without challenges. He narrowly escaped elimination in the Top 8 match against Ian Robb, who won but was disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct after making an inappropriate gesture on camera. This unexpected turn of events led Cifuentes to face Jesse Parker in the semifinals. Despite the pressure, Cifuentes triumphed over Parker and runner-up Seinosuke Shiokawa, securing the $50,000 grand prize.

For more details on the 2024 Pokémon World Championship, check out our article below!