Fernando Cifuentes, the 18-year-old Pokémon TCG World Champion, received an extraordinary honor: a meeting with the President of Chile. This article details his remarkable journey and the presidential reception.
Presidential Recognition at Palacio de La Moneda
On Thursday, Cifuentes and nine fellow Chilean competitors were invited to Palacio de La Moneda, the Chilean presidential palace. They enjoyed a meal with President Boric and participated in a celebratory photo opportunity. The government expressed immense pride in their achievement, recognizing their advancement to the second day of the World Championships. High-ranking officials joined the President in congratulating the players.
President Boric's Instagram post highlighted the positive social impact of trading card games, emphasizing the collaborative spirit fostered within these competitive communities.
Cifuentes received a personalized framed card featuring himself and Iron Thorns, the Pokémon that secured his victory. The card's inscription reads: "Fernando and Iron Thorns. Ability: World Champion. Fernando Cifuentes, from Iquique, made history as the first Chilean World Champion at the 2024 Pokémon World Championships Masters Finals in Honolulu, Hawaii."
President Boric's familiarity with Iron Thorns isn't surprising; he's a known Pokémon enthusiast. During his 2021 campaign, he declared Squirtle his favorite Pokémon. Following Cifuentes' win, the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs gifted him a Squirtle and Pokéball plush.
Cifuentes' Unlikely 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 led to a semifinal match against Jesse Parker, which Cifuentes won, ultimately defeating Seinosuke Shiokawa to claim the $50,000 prize.
For more information on the 2024 Pokémon World Championships, please see our related article.
