For four years, Hamzat Rasaq of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) was untouchable in the Men’s Table Tennis Singles at the Lagos State Head of Service (HOS) Games. His dominance was so complete that the final match often felt like a formality. Year after year, he outplayed his consistent rival, Yisau Ibrahim of the Primary Health Education Board (PHEB), to claim gold.
But on Thursday morning, in the 2025 edition of the HOS Games, something extraordinary happened. Hamzat’s reign finally ended.
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In a gripping and emotional final, Yisau Ibrahim turned the tables to defeat the four-time champion and claim the top prize. For the first time since 2021, Hamzat walked away without gold—and the disappointment was evident.
Speaking reluctantly after the match, Hamzat admitted it was one of the toughest moments of his sporting journey.
“It was a very tough game. You know in table tennis, it’s anybody’s game. Anybody can win at any time. There is no champion forever,” he said. “I believe by next year, I will be champion again.”
Despite the loss, the former champion showed humility and composure. When asked if he believed he could return stronger next year, he smiled and said:
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“By the grace of God, I will come back and win the game.”
Hamzat dismissed suggestions that fatigue or injury played a role in his defeat.
“No, I just didn’t get myself when we started the game,” he explained. “Like I said earlier, table tennis is anybody’s game.”
He ended the interview with a bold message to his rival and fans alike:
“I want to tell him to enjoy his temporary victory this year. He should prepare for me next time. By God’s grace, I’ll beat him.”
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Though his golden streak has been broken, Hamzat Rasaq’s resilience and sportsmanship remain the defining marks of a true champion. His story is one of grit, dominance, and the promise of redemption—a reminder that even legends have their off days, but true champions always rise again.
