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Pokémon TCG World Champion Honored by the President of Chile

By BenjaminMar 17,2025

Pokémon TCG World Champion Honored by the President of Chile

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.

From Pokémon TCG Champion to Presidential Breakfast

A Historic Meeting at Palacio de La Moneda

Eighteen-year-old Fernando Cifuentes, the reigning Pokémon TCG World Champion, and nine fellow Chilean competitors were invited to Palacio de La Moneda, the Chilean presidential palace, on Thursday. They enjoyed a meal with the President and a group photo. The Chilean government expressed immense pride in the nine players who reached the second day of the competition. High-ranking government officials also attended to congratulate the group.

President Boric's Instagram post highlighted the positive influence of trading card games on youth, emphasizing the collaborative spirit fostered within these competitive communities.

Pokémon TCG World Champion Honored by the President of Chile

Cifuentes received a framed custom card featuring himself and Iron Thorns, his championship Pokémon. The inscription reads: "Fernando and Iron Thorns. Ability: World Champion. Fernando Cifuentes, from Iquique, made history as the first Chilean to be crowned world champion at the Pokémon World Championships 2024 Masters Finals in Honolulu, Hawaii."

President Boric's familiarity with Iron Thorns isn't surprising; he's a Pokémon fan, having declared Squirtle his favorite Pokémon during his 2021 presidential campaign. To celebrate Cifuentes' win, the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs gifted him a Squirtle and Pokéball plushie.

Cifuentes’ Unexpected Path to Victory

Cifuentes' journey wasn't without its twists. He narrowly avoided elimination in the Top 8 after his opponent, Ian Robb, was disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct. This led to an unexpected semifinal match against Jesse Parker, which Cifuentes won, ultimately defeating Seinosuke Shiokawa to claim the $50,000 grand prize.

For more on the 2024 Pokémon World Championships, see our related article!

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