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.

A Presidential Welcome at Palacio de La Moneda

On Thursday, Cifuentes and nine fellow Chilean competitors were invited to Palacio de La Moneda, the presidential palace. They enjoyed a meal with the President and participated in a group photograph. The Chilean government expressed immense pride in their achievement, with several high-ranking officials joining 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 commemorative framed card featuring himself and Iron Thorns, the Pokémon that secured his victory. 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 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 presidential campaign, he declared Squirtle his favorite Pokémon. Following Cifuentes' win, the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs presented him with a Squirtle and Pokéball plush.

Cifuentes' 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 led him to the semifinals against Jesse Parker, whom he defeated, ultimately triumphing over Seinosuke Shiokawa to claim the $50,000 prize.

For more information on the 2024 Pokémon World Championships, please see our related article.