The debut of breaking, also known as breakdancing, at the Paris Olympics ended with controversy. One of the most talked-about moments was Australian b-girl Raygun’s performance, which featured a “kangaroo dance” and received no points.
In a show of solidarity, Martin Gilian, the head judge of the breaking competition, defended 36-year-old university professor Rachael Gunn, known as Raygun. Gilian praised her for trying to bring something unique to the sport. “Breaking is all about originality and representing your culture,” said Gilian, also known as MGbility. “Raygun’s dance was inspired by her surroundings, such as a kangaroo.”
Despite the support, Raygun faced harsh criticism online. The breaking federation has offered mental health support to address the backlash. “We have five judging criteria, and her level wasn’t as high as the other competitors,” Gilian explained. “But that doesn’t mean she performed poorly. She gave her best and won the Oceania qualifier. The other b-girls were simply better.”
Sergey Nifontov, general secretary of the World DanceSport Federation, confirmed that they have been in contact with Gunn and Australian Olympic officials. “We’ve offered support from our safeguarding officer,” Nifontov said. “We’re aware of the social media criticism and prioritize the athlete’s mental safety.”
Breaking will not be included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The next Summer Games will be held in Brisbane, Australia. Nifontov downplayed concerns about Raygun’s performance affecting Brisbane 2032. “We believe this won’t impact our chances for the next Games,” he said.
Ami Yuasa of Japan, also known as b-girl Ami, won the gold medal and expressed disappointment that breaking won’t be featured in Los Angeles. “It’s sad because breaking originated in the USA,” she said. “It’s more than just a sport; it’s a form of self-expression and art.”
Federation president Shawn Tay defended the evolution of breaking from its 1970s Bronx origins to an Olympic sport. Critics have questioned the commercialization of breaking. “We were warned that some top breakers might not participate,” Tay noted. “But we now have the best breakers competing fiercely for their countries. This has pushed them to train harder and more scientifically.”
