In a dramatic conclusion that captivated audiences, Perla Figuereo, known as Player 72, has been declared the victor of Squid Game: The Challenge Season 2. The 25-year-old model from the Boogie Down Bronx and the Dominican Republic outlasted 456 other contestants to claim the grand prize of $4.56 million, as reported by Forbes.
The Final Showdown: A Test of Nerves and Strategy
The finale featured five determined players: Vanessa (Player 17), Perla (Player 72), Steven (Player 183), Dajah (Player 302), and Trinity (Player 398). The tension escalated during their final meal, where a twist of fate awaited. Each contestant was given five coins, one of which was black and signified immediate elimination.
After hearing the moving personal stories of her competitors, Trinity (Player 398) made the shocking decision to accept the black coin, opting for self-elimination. This act of sacrifice narrowed the field down to the final four contenders.
Red Light, Green Light: The Decisive Final Game
The ultimate test came down to one of the most iconic games from the original South Korean series, which starred Lee Jung-jae: Red Light, Green Light. In this high-stakes final round, Perla Figuereo demonstrated incredible focus and composure.
Vanessa was the first to be eliminated from the final game, followed shortly after by Steven. The competition reached its peak when Dajah, suffering from a popped ankle, fell during the game. This left Perla as the last player standing, crowning her the champion of the grueling reality competition.
After her victory, an elated Perla declared, "Little Perlita, from the BX Boogie Down Bronx and Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, is a multimillionaire." She expressed immense joy at the prospect of being able to finally provide for and look after her family.
Dreams and Debt: What's Next for the Winner?
So, what does Perla plan to do with her life-changing winnings? In an interview with Netflix's Tudum, she revealed practical and heartfelt plans. Her immediate goal is to achieve financial freedom by paying off her credit card debt.
Beyond that, she intends to fulfill a special dream. "I do also want to make my mom’s dream of going to India a reality," Perla told Forbes. This means a special mother-daughter trip to India is now on the cards, turning a long-held dream into an imminent adventure.
