Galuzo climbed a mountain to be the oldest on top: ”Was truly a miracle”

Yanis Galuzo always played like a god but sometimes seemed to lack faith.

Then the miracle happened.

Now the 37-year-old has found heaven – but table hockey is still a bit holy in his life.

✔ Merits: World champion 2021 in Tallinn.

✔ Results: Won the final against Nikita Zholobov by 4-1 (7-2, 1-4, 4-3s, 3-2, 6-2).

✔ Profile: For years Yanis was behind Alexey Zaharov as Russia’s number one. That was never because he lacked talent or technique. Over the years Galuzo gained experience and added the mental toughness to his artistry. It all culminated when he stood on top of the world at the age of 33.

What do you remember the most from your world championship gold?

“Well, it was a very special day and a special time for me. Unfortunately there was also some tragedy in my personal life, but somehow I still had the energy to win gold. That was truly a miracle!”

What were the keys to your victory?

“If we are talking about the game, I think my key was about experience. I’m the oldest champ in history. During my career I’ve learned many ways of playing in offence and defence, so that helped me to feel confident against any opponent.”

Why didn’t you defend the gold medal at the following world championships?

“Well, I guess everyone knows why. Unfortunately it’s all about politics. Russian table hockey players were disqualified from all tournaments from 2022 until nowadays.”

When was the last time you played table hockey?

“It was in May. Nowadays I’m organizing tournaments in S:t Petersburg, both local and national ones. Sometimes I also participate, but mainly it’s about organization. Table hockey is still part of my life, but not as an active player anymore.”

What are your impressions of international table hockey today?

“Do you want me to be honest or polite? Haha.” 

Are there things that were better in the past?

“Yes, everything was better 15-20 years ago. I think no one for the last ten years or so has taken table hockey as seriously as it was before.”

Is there a chance that we will see you in future championships with help from the new rule that all former world champions are directly qualified?

“Well, I didn’t hear anything about this rule, that’s a surprise to me. But Russians are still not allowed to play in ITHF tournaments, so I guess there is no reason to discuss it. For me it’s very sad that table hockey turns into politics while there are so many things to improve in the game and the organization. Table hockey for me was always about the community. So when tragic things like war happen, I think we should stand together or at least don’t stop to communicate. Unfortunately our federations do not think so (both ITHF and the Russian federation with the guys who were there at that moment, but also other federations). That was very sad for me, but not a big surprise.”

What do you do nowadays? And is there another hobby that has replaced or can compete with table hockey in your daily life?

“As I said, a part of my life is still in table hockey and it’s about organizing tournaments and events. Sometimes it’s really hard work when there is a big championship with about 100 players, but I love it! Usually my tournaments are played in different formats. In S:t Petersburg Masters we are for example using a double elimination system with best of seven only. In my daily life I usually spend time in church. I can’t name it as a hobby, but it’s mostly about learning new things and new experiences. Kind of a lifestyle!”

Who will win the world championships 2025?

“I’m not sure who will actually participate so I can’t predict. I guess that without Russians a Ukrainian or Latvian player can win. Or maybe Swedish? Is Oscar still playing? If yes, I’ll cheer for him.”