Eighteen-year-old Fernando Cifuentes, the reigning Pokémon TCG World Champion, received an extraordinary honor: a meeting with the President of Chile at the Palacio de La Moneda. This momentous occasion saw Cifuentes and nine fellow Chilean competitors enjoy a meal and photo opportunity with President Boric and other government officials. The President highlighted the positive social aspects of trading card games, emphasizing their role in fostering collaboration and friendship.
The Presidential Recognition
Cifuentes' achievement was further celebrated with a personalized, framed card featuring him and his championship Pokémon, Iron Thorns. The card's inscription translates to: "Fernando and Iron Thorns. Ability: World Champion. Fernando Cifuentes, from Iquique, made history as the first Chilean to be crowned world champion during the Pokémon World Championships 2024 Masters Finals in Honolulu, Hawaii." This recognition is particularly fitting, considering President Boric's own affinity for Pokémon, having previously declared Squirtle as his favorite. He even received a Squirtle plushie from the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs.
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 ultimately defeated, securing the $50,000 grand prize and the title of World Champion.
For a comprehensive overview of the 2024 Pokémon World Championships, please refer to our related article.
