Australian breakdancer Raygun, whose real name is Rachael Gunn, recently faced criticism for her performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite the backlash, the Olympian and university lecturer has chosen not to engage with her detractors, instead focusing on her commitment to artistic expression.
Raygun, who competed in the Olympics’ inaugural breaking competition, was criticized for her decision to wear Australia’s green-and-yellow tracksuits during her performance. Additionally, she faced harsh judgments after losing all three of her one-on-one matches by a combined score of 54-0. However, Gunn remains unfazed by the negative comments, maintaining that her approach to the competition was rooted in creativity rather than conforming to traditional expectations.
“What I wanted to do was come out here and do something new and different and creative – that’s my strength, my creativity,” Gunn told reporters after the event. “I was never going to beat these girls on what they do best, the dynamic and the power moves, so I wanted to move differently, be artistic and creative because how many chances do you get in a lifetime to do that on an international stage?”
Despite the mixed reception, Raygun’s performance has garnered support from her teammates and other members of the Olympic community. Australian Olympic team chef de mission Anna Meares publicly defended Gunn, expressing disappointment over the online criticism.
“I love Rachael, and I think that what has occurred on social media with trolls and keyboard warriors, and taking those comments and giving them airtime, has been really disappointing,” Meares said. “Raygun is an absolutely loved member of this Olympic team. She has represented the Olympic team, the Olympic spirit with great enthusiasm. And I absolutely love her courage. I love her character, and I feel very disappointed for her, that she has come under the attack that she has.”
Meares also highlighted Gunn’s journey as a pioneering woman in a male-dominated sport, recalling how Gunn’s resilience has been a defining feature of her career. “In 2008, she was locked in a room crying being involved in a male-dominated sport as the only woman, and it took great courage for her to continue on and fight for her opportunity to participate in a sport that she loved,” Meares added. “That got her to winning the Olympic qualifying event to be here in Paris. She is the best breakdancer female that we have for Australia.”
As the first-ever breakdancing competition in the Olympics, Raygun’s approach was always going to challenge the status quo. Her emphasis on creativity over conventional power moves may not have earned her a podium finish, but it showcased a different facet of the sport—one that values artistic innovation and self-expression.
By standing firm in her artistic vision and refusing to be swayed by critics, Raygun embodies the spirit of an athlete who competes not just for medals, but for the love of the sport and the opportunity to inspire others to embrace their unique strengths.
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