Tim Wigmore
Updated on: October 9, 2024 7:22 am GMT
Australian Breakdancer Raygun Crowned World Number One Amid Olympic Controversy
Rachael “Raygun” Gunn, the Australian breakdancer who stirred up significant controversy during her Olympic debut in Paris, has emerged as the new world number one breaker. At 37, Gunn’s unexpected rise to the top of the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF) rankings comes just after her struggles on the Olympic stage, where she finished second to last. Her journey speaks to the complexities and challenges of an evolving sport gaining recognition on a global platform.
Raygun’s Olympic Performance: A Mixed Reception
During the Paris Olympics held in August, Raygun faced intense scrutiny for her performances, in which she did not score a single point. Competing against breakers from the United States, France, and Lithuania, she lost each of her three rounds with scores of 18-0. Her routine included unique moves, such as a kangaroo hop and various floor contortions, which were largely perceived by viewers as unconventional and comedic rather than competitive.
The backlash reached global proportions, even catching the attention of celebrities like Adele and Rachel Dratch, who referenced her routine during public appearances. In her first interview following the Olympic drama, aired on Australian show “The Project,” Raygun expressed remorse for the negative impact her performance had on the breakdancing community.
Addressing the Backlash
In her interview, Raygun stated, “I am very sorry for the backlash that the community has experienced,” acknowledging that while she qualified for the Olympics by winning the WDSF Oceania Championships, the reaction to her performance wasn’t what she had hoped for. “I would much rather focus on the positives…going out there and just having fun,” she added.
Despite the adversity, Raygun insisted that her style of breaking is a “different approach” that embodies a unique artistic expression within the sport. She highlighted the diversity in breaking styles and defended her creative choices, which included a focus on originality and musicality. “I knew that people were not going to understand my style and what I was going to do,” she explained.
Ranked Number One: A Surprising Turn of Events
Against all odds, Raygun’s prior performances garnered her significant points, ensuring her spot at the top of the world rankings. Her successful run at the Oceania Championships earned her 1,000 points—enough to secure her a place in the WDSF’s latest rankings as number one, even after her Olympic misfortunes. She now leads a group of four Australian breakers within the top eight, including Holy Molly, Hannah, and G-Clef.
Interestingly, none of the three medalists from the Olympics were included in the latest rankings, as the competition did not contribute points for ranking purposes.
Reflecting on the Impact of Fame
In her reflective interview, Raygun shared how her newfound fame brought both opportunity and criticism. She spoke candidly about her initial ignorance towards the backlash, admitting that she was advised to avoid social media post-performance. However, she ultimately faced stark realities upon emerging from her bubble. “I got a sick feeling when I saw what the internet was saying,” she recounted, noting how her public sightings became a source of anxiety as she worried about how she would be recognized.
Re-assessing Future Competitions
In light of the intense scrutiny she has faced, Raygun announced her decision to step back from competitive breaking for the foreseeable future. ”It’s been a bit of a process to try and start dancing again,” she mentioned, indicating that the stress of competition had overshadowed her passion for dance. “I’m really happy that it gets to go back to being my medicine,” she concluded, hinting at a return to the dance floor for enjoyment rather than competition.
A Community Divided
While Raygun expressed her hope to bring joy through her performances, responses within the breakdancing community remain mixed. Many have criticized her Olympic routine, labeling it as embarrassing and dismissing her unique style as an inadequate representation of Australian breaking. Social media reactions have largely skewed negative, with commenters openly questioning her qualifications and intent.
Addressing Critiques on Diversity and Representation
The conversation surrounding Raygun’s Olympic participation has also touched on themes of diversity and the cultural origins of breakdancing. Raygun acknowledged that while she represents a certain profile within the sport, the breakdancing community is much broader, and calls for increased support for Australian breakers have been echoed as a means of fostering inclusivity and growth.
“A lot of the responses… are just due to people not being very familiar with breaking and the diversity of approaches,” she stated, asserting the need for more resources and recognition for all forms of the art within Australia.
Moving Forward: Challenges and Aspirations
As Raygun grapples with this mixed reception, she remains focused on her personal goals. Although she has temporarily withdrawn from competitive breaks, she is determined to embrace her passion for dance without the weight of expectations. Her renewed approach to breaking seeks to emphasize expression and connection rather than solely performance outcomes.
As the breakdancing community and its audience navigate this transformative period, Raygun’s experiences serve as a reminder of the challenges and complexities involved in bringing traditional art forms into contemporary platforms like the Olympics. While the road ahead remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the conversation around breaking will continue to evolve, shaped by voices from all corners of its diverse community.
Breakdancing is an exciting dance style that has a bright future ahead. It’s important to learn more about how it fits into global competitions and its history. Understanding these topics can help you appreciate breakdancing even more!
