Australian breakdancer Rachael "Raygun" Gunn addressed her critics in response to the backlash she faced for her viral routine and outfit at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Despite not securing a win in any of her group stage matches during the first breaking competition at the Olympics, where she was defeated by teams from the United States, France, and Lithuania, Raygun managed to captivate audiences in Paris.
She said in an Instagram Story, via the Australian News, "Looking forward to the same level of scrutiny on what the b-boys wear tomorrow."
On Friday, Raygun also shared a social media quote that said, "Don't be afraid to be different. Go out there and represent yourself, you never know where that's gonna take you."
Raygun's routine combined unique dance steps that quickly went viral as internet memes. The 36-year-old dancer fascinated audiences with her unconventional dance routine. She garnered both laughter and a growing fan base by wearing an Australian tracksuit and cap instead of traditional breaking attire.
"All my moves are original. Creativity is really important to me. I go out there and I show my artistry," Raygun told reporters at the venue, according to The Guardian.
As a university lecturer specializing in cultural studies, Raygun acknowledged her limitations in competing with the athletes' physical prowess. Instead, she focused on cultivating her creativity to stand out.
There has not been an Olympic performance this dominant since Usain Bolt’s 100m sprint at Beijing in 2008. Honestly, the moment Raygun broke out her Kangaroo move this competition was over! Give her the #breakdancing gold 🥇
— Trapper Haskins (@TrapperHaskins) August 9, 2024
pic.twitter.com/6q8qAft1BX
"Sometimes it speaks to the judges, and sometimes it doesn't. I do my thing, and it represents art. That is what it is about. What I wanted to do was come out here and do something new and different and creative - that's my strength, my creativity."
Raygun solidified her position as Australia's top b-girl following her victory at the Oceania Breaking Championships last year.
"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. I was always the underdog and wanted to make my mark in a different way."
"I was always the underdog and wanted to make my mark in a different way."
When questioned about including breaking as an Olympic sport, Raygun expressed her belief that it aligns with the necessary criteria. She emphasized the athleticism and dedication required for break dancing, stating that it introduces a new wave of excitement to the competition.
