The 2024 Paris Olympics had many viral and iconic moments, but it may be difficult to find a moment that was as heavily discussed as Rachael "Raygun" Gunn's breakdancing routine.
The 36-year-old university professor from Sydney took the internet by storm for her showing in what was the first time ever that the Olympics had "breaking". The Australian "b-girl” as it was revealed, is the preferred term by people in the sport did not record a single point throughout her showings. She lost to USA’s Logistx, France’s Syssy, and Lithuania’s Nicka all by scores of 18-0 all while busting out "original" moves that many fans compared to a kangaroo or something that kids tell their parents to watch when they want to show them something.
The online backlash led to Raygun revealing she knew she wasn't going to win, but wanted to display her creativity instead.
"I was never going to beat these girls on what they do best -- their power moves," Gunn said to ESPN . "What I bring is creativity."
"All of my moves are original," Raygun continued. "Creativity is really important to me. I go out there, and I show my artistry. 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."
The intense backlash and mockery of Gunn led to Australia's Chef de Mission, Anna Meares, stating how disappointing it was to see how people treated her and offer her support for her fellow Aussie.
"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 per ESPN . "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."
However, Gunn hasn't shied away from the attention. In fact, she went viral again on Monday for showing off what many people felt were better moves than her actual performance.
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The video was posted by Australian rower Jean Mitchell, as she captured Gunn dancing in the street with fellow Olympians and fans cheering her on after each and every move while calling Gunn a "Queen" in the caption. The video has nearly three million views on TikTok, and has shown that even despite being made fun of on social media, Gunn is still doing what she loves; dancing.
In terms of whether or not she will have a chance at redemption, NBC reported that breaking along with boxing likely will not be an event at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Instead, the Los Angeles Olympics will welcome lacrosse, cricket, baseball/softball, squash, and flag football.
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