Entertainment
Australian breakdancer Raygun claps back at critics after the Paris Olympics
Racheal Gunn, who acts as Raygun
Photo by Elsa/Getty ImagesAustralian breakdancer Raygun has heard the criticism over her performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics – and she’s not feeding the trolls.
The Olympian and university lecturer, real name Rachel Gunnresponded to critics of her decision to wear Australia’s green and yellow tracksuits during an appearance at the first break match of the Olympics.
“I look forward to the same level of scrutiny on what the b-boys are wearing tomorrow,” Gunn shared via Instagram on Friday, August 10.
Gun was matter-of-factly about her beating over three rounds of breaking. She lost all three of her one-on-one matches by a combined score of 54-0. After the event, Gunn told reporters that she “represents the art” and knows that sometimes that won’t reach the judges.
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“What I wanted to do was come here and do something new, different and creative – that is my strength, my creativity,” she said. “I would never beat these girls at what they do best, the dynamics and the power movements, so I wanted to move differently, be artistic and creative, because how many opportunities do you get in your life to do that on an international stage?”
Gunn, 36, said Yahoo that her “style is not well suited for these events.” The women’s event was won by Japan Ami Yuasawho performs as B-Girl Ami.
The head of the Australian Olympic team commented on the ridicule faced by Gunn during a press conference on Saturday, August 10. Anna Meares defended Gunn’s place in the Olympics and her dedication to the sport.
“I love Rachael, and I think what’s happened on social media with trolls and keyboard warriors, and taking those comments and giving them airtime, has been really disappointing,” Meares said. “Raygun is an absolutely beloved member of this Olympic team. She has represented the Olympic team and the Olympic spirit with great enthusiasm. And I absolutely love her courage. I love her character, and I’m very disappointed for her that she has come under the attack that she has.
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The former Olympic cyclist noted that Gunn had come to the Games by beating all her Australian competition and praised the university lecturer for her dedication to the sport.
“In 2008, she was locked in a room crying because she was the only woman involved in a male-dominated sport, and it took her a lot of courage to continue and fight for her chance to participate in a sport she loves loved,” Meares said. “That led her to win the Olympic qualifying event to be here in Paris. She is the best female breakdancer we have for Australia.”
