Australia's B-Girl Raygun makes her Olympic debut

Rachael Gunn, a 36-year-old university professor from Sydney, Australia and a competitive player, recently made her Olympic debut in Paris, becoming an internet sensation. Known as B-girl Raygun, Gunn balances her academic career with her passion for breakdancing, competing in events around the world. Her journey recently took her to the Paris Olympics, where breakdancing was included for the first time, featuring 32 athletes, known as B-boys and B-girls.

At the competition, Raygun, dressed in Australia's green and gold tracksuit, showed off her unique moves through three all-around battles, including a kangaroo jump, a back roll and various body contortions. Despite not registering any points in her battles against competitors from the USA, France and Lithuania, Raygun remained undaunted, stating that all her moves are original and that creativity is crucial to her.

While some online comments criticized Raygun's performances, many defended his unique and creative approach. Martin Gilian, the chief judge of the Olympics, praised Raygun's originality and representation of his country. Sergey Nifontov, secretary general of the World DanceSport Federation, expressed concern about the negative response on social media, saying it should not happen in the world of competitive dance.

Gunn began breaking into competition in her mid-20s, having previously dabbled in other forms of dance, including ballroom, jazz, tap, and hip-hop. Despite competing against B-girls around half her age in Paris, she described the experience as amazing and a privilege. His courage and character were praised by Anna Meares, a former professional cyclist and Australian chef de mission, who expressed her disappointment at the criticism Gunn faced.

Breaking, which emerged on the streets of New York City in the 1970s, is considered a key element of hip-hop culture. While some see it more as an artistic expression than a sport, the International Olympic Committee included it in the Paris Games to attract a younger audience. However, it is not clear whether breaking will be included in future Olympics.