Support For B-Girl Raygun at Paris Olympics

The breaking community is rallying behind b-girl Raygun following the conclusion of the Paris Olympics. The sport made its Olympic debut in Paris, and one of the standout moments was the performance of Australian b-girl Raygun, who attempted a unique “kangaroo dance” routine that resulted in zero points.

Despite the criticism, the head judge of the breaking competition, Martin Gilian (MGbility), came to Raygun’s defense, stating that she was simply trying to bring something original to the table. Gilian emphasized that breaking is all about creativity and representing one’s country or region, and Raygun’s performance was a reflection of that spirit.

The breaking and hip-hop communities have shown their support for Raygun, emphasizing that her bold and original approach should be celebrated. While she may not have scored as high as other competitors, Raygun’s innovation and dedication to the sport are commendable.

In response to the online backlash, the breaking federation has offered mental health support to Raygun, underscoring the importance of prioritizing the well-being of athletes. Sergey Nifontov, the general secretary of the World DanceSport Federation, confirmed that they are providing support to Raygun and the Australian Olympic team.

Looking ahead, breaking is not scheduled to be included in the program for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. However, the breaking community remains optimistic about the sport’s future, with Brisbane, Australia, set to host the Summer Games in 2032.

Despite the challenges faced by Raygun and the breaking community, the passion and artistry of the sport continue to shine through. B-girl Ami, the gold medalist from Japan, expressed her disappointment at the missed opportunity to showcase breaking in Los Angeles, emphasizing the cultural roots of the art form.

As breaking continues to evolve and gain recognition on the international stage, supporters like Federation president Shawn Tay are optimistic about the sport’s future. The journey from its humble beginnings in the Bronx to its Olympic debut is a testament to the hard work and dedication of breakers worldwide.