Australian breaker Rachael Gunn, known as B-girl Raygun, has retired from competitive breaking following backlash from her performance at the Paris Olympics, where she failed to score in her rounds. Her unorthodox moves drew global ridicule and sparked debate over breaking's place in the Olympics. Gunn cited the intense scrutiny and negative response as reasons for her decision, despite initial plans to continue competing. The controversy also raised questions about the suitability of breaking as an Olympic sport.
Twelve dancers have been confirmed to compete in the 2024 Olympics for breaking, with six B-boys and six B-girls securing their spots so far. The confirmed competitors include Victor Montalvo and Sunny Choi from the United States. France, as the host country, has one quota each for the B-boy and B-girl events, and there are four quotas reserved for universality places. The remaining spots will be determined at the Olympic Qualifier Series in Shanghai and Budapest.
The 2024 Paris Olympics will feature several new sports and events, including the debut of breaking (commonly known as breakdancing) with 16 men and 16 women competing, surfing taking place in Teahupo’o, skateboarding returning with four events, sport climbing with a fresh format and more athletes, 3x3 basketball making a comeback, and the debut of kayak cross under the canoe slalom umbrella. Additionally, there are changes in other sports such as artistic swimming, boxing, sailing, shooting, track and field, volleyball, and weightlifting.
Breakdancing, also known as breaking, will make its Olympic debut at the Paris Games, aiming to captivate a younger audience and inspire participation in the sport. The competition will feature solo battles for men and women, showcasing acrobatic movements, stylized footwork, and power moves set to music. The U.S. Olympic breaking team will include two B-boys and two B-girls, with hopes of securing the first breaking medalists in Olympic history. Originating in New York City in the 1970s, breaking has evolved into a global cultural art form, with the U.S. considered a front-runner in the sport.
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