Pokémon Champ Gets Presidential Recognition

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. On Thursday, Cifuentes and nine fellow Chilean competitors were invited to Palacio de La Moneda, the presidential palace, for a luncheon and photo opportunity with President Gabriel Boric.

The Chilean government lauded the players' achievements, highlighting their advancement to the second day of the World Championships. High-ranking officials joined the President in congratulating the talented group. President Boric's Instagram post celebrated the positive influence of trading card games, emphasizing the community spirit fostered through competitive play.

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 a unique element to the story. A known fan himself (favoring Squirtle), he received a Squirtle plushie from the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs following Cifuentes' victory.

A Dramatic Path to Victory

Cifuentes' journey wasn't without its challenges. He narrowly escaped elimination in the Top 8 after his opponent, Ian Robb, was disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct. This unexpected turn of events propelled Cifuentes to the semifinals against Jesse Parker, whom he defeated, ultimately securing the $50,000 grand prize and the championship title over Seinosuke Shiokawa.

For a comprehensive recap of the 2024 Pokémon World Championships, please see our related article.