I arrived in Los Angeles on August 8th, landing at LAX and kicking off what would be an unforgettable trip for the 2025 Pokémon World Championships. Getting in a few days early turned out to be the perfect call. It gave us time to explore the city, something I was grateful for before diving into the intensity of Worlds.
We joined a tour that took us to some of LA’s most iconic landmarks: Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Sign, Beverly Hills, and the Walk of Fame. Taking it all in felt surreal, especially knowing that I had only been in the U.S. two months earlier for NAIC. To be back again so soon for another huge event was something I never could have imagined a few years ago.
Anaheim and Disneyland
From LA, we made our way to Anaheim, where our hotel was in a prime spot close to both the Convention Center and Disneyland. Naturally, we set aside a day for Disney before the competition began.
Thanks to the Lightning Pass, we managed to skip most queues and fit in nearly all the major rides. We stayed through the evening for the famous parade and fireworks show, which made for the perfect ending to the day. It was a long day, but an excellent way to relax and recharge before the battles of Worlds kicked off.
Badge Pickup
The day before the competition was badge pickup. Collecting competitor packs is always exciting, but what really makes it special is the chance to catch up with friends and familiar faces. That evening, we went out for dinner, talking strategy, and looking ahead to what the next few days would bring.
The Australian community is something I am especially proud of. Even though we are small in numbers compared to other regions, we are close-knit. At Worlds, it feels less like teammates and more like family, always there to support one another.
Game Day
The opening ceremony set the tone brilliantly, with an extravagant stage display and musical act that captured the energy of Worlds. I was placed in one of the early groups, so as soon as it wrapped up, it was my turn to play.
My first-round opponent was Arrohh, a well-known battler in the community and a tough way to start. A few misplays on my part cost me the set. Losing in round one is never ideal since the pressure immediately ramps up with that voice in the back of your mind reminding you that one more loss means elimination. It is a tough thought to wrestle with, but you have to push it aside, reset, and focus on what is ahead.
I managed to do exactly that, picking up three consecutive wins against strong opponents: MongoKetchum, gamebirdTW, and LNDsKanan. Each set was a grind, but those victories gave me the momentum I needed.
Unfortunately, my run came to an end in the following round against MasterMihir295. The set was tied 1-1 going into the decider, but he was able to close it out. My Worlds journey was over.
Still, finishing in the Top 64 out of 220+ of the world’s best battlers is something I can be proud of. Of course, we all strive to go as far as possible, but it is important to acknowledge our progress and growth as battlers and to celebrate the accomplishments of the wider community.
Cheering On and the Top Cut
With my own matches behind me, I was free to enjoy the action from the side-lines, cheering on friends, watching the crowd react to incredible plays, and soaking up the atmosphere of the biggest Pokémon GO stage in the world.
On Day 2, the Top 32 took the stage. I was especially excited to support fellow Oceania competitors ValiantVish and Jinz, both of which made us proud with their performances. As the day went on, the field narrowed until only two remained: P4T0M4N from Spain and BeezleBoy from India.
The Grand Finals
The finals were held in the Stadium, a separate hall in the Convention Centre, where all the Pokémon titles crowned their champions. After Unite concluded, it was time for Pokémon GO to take the spotlight.
BeezleBoy, coming from the Losers Bracket, had the near impossible task of winning two Best of Fives against P4T0M4N. But he had a key advantage: Galarian Moltres, which P4T0’s team had little counterplay for. Beezle leaned on it heavily and managed to reset the bracket, forcing a final showdown.
The energy in the arena was electric. The score reached 2-2. One last game for the World Championship. Every tap, every shield, every switch drew gasps and cheers from the crowd.
Then it happened. BeezleBoy, with his signature Galarian Moltres, sealed the win and was crowned the 2025 Pokémon GO World Champion. The eruption of cheers, the emotion on stage, and the sheer magnitude of the moment was something I will never forget.
Wrapping Up
With Worlds over, we shared one final dinner with the group, reminiscing about the tournament and looking ahead to the future.
The next day came the long journey home: Anaheim to Sydney, then back to Perth. Over 20 hours of travel left me completely exhausted, but also grateful. Grateful to have competed, grateful to share the experience with friends, and grateful to be part of such a special global community.
Until next time, Trainers.
Stay safe and take care.
