Viral Australian Breakdancer Scored 0 Points In Paris

Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn, known as “Raygun,” recently went viral during the Paris 2024 Olympics, but not for the reasons she might have hoped. Competing in the breakdancing event, Raygun failed to score a single point in all three rounds, leading many to wonder how she qualified for the Olympics in the first place. Her routine, which included hopping like a kangaroo and rolling on the floor, was met with confusion from viewers, although one judge, MGbility, appreciated her originality. He noted that the breaking and hip-hop community supported her efforts to bring something new and represent her country uniquely.

Raygun, a 36-year-old university lecturer from Sydney, has always prioritized creativity in her performances. She explained that her moves are entirely original and reflect her artistic expression. Despite her low scores, Raygun remains proud of her routine, emphasizing that her goal was to showcase her artistry, even if it didn’t resonate with the judges. The Sydney native’s path to the Olympics was paved by her success at the WDSF Oceania Breaking Championships in 2023, where she won the final 2-1, earning her spot at the Games.

The reaction to Raygun’s performance has been mixed, with some praising her for staying true to her artistic vision, while others have been critical of her unconventional approach. Regardless, her participation has sparked conversations about the nature of competitive breakdancing and what it means to truly represent one’s country on such a global stage. Although breakdancing will not be included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, there is hope that it might return for the Brisbane 2032 Games, where Raygun’s unique style could find new appreciation.

The controversy surrounding Raygun’s performance highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between creativity and competitiveness in sports. While her moves may not have earned her high scores, they have certainly captured the attention of audiences and sparked discussions about the evolving nature of the Olympic Games. As the breakdancing community continues to push for inclusion in future Olympics, Raygun’s experience serves as a reminder of the diverse forms of expression that athletes bring to the world stage.