Rachael Gunn, known by her stage name Raygun, has made the difficult decision to retire from competitive breakdancing, following an intense backlash after her appearance at the Paris Olympics. The Australian breakdancer, who became the subject of online ridicule, says she’s stepping away from elite competitions but will continue dancing in a more personal capacity.
Raygun’s Olympic debut in 2024 was met with criticism after her routine, which featured quirky moves like kangaroo hops and imitating a sprinkler, failed to impress judges. Her unconventional performance quickly went viral, leading to memes and late-night talk show jokes, particularly about her green tracksuit and unique style.
In a radio interview, Gunn explained that while she’s still passionate about breaking, the pressure of performing at such a high level has become too much. “I’m not going to compete anymore. I’m still going to dance, but it’s just in my living room with my partner,” she said. The backlash had taken a toll on her emotionally, leaving her feeling powerless over how the public viewed her.
Despite the criticism, Gunn found support from unexpected places, including fellow Olympians and even the Australian Prime Minister. She also had her shining moment when she briefly ranked as the world’s number one female breakdancer in the World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF) rankings, thanks to her victory at the Oceania Championship.
However, with breakdancing no longer part of the 2028 Olympic Games, Raygun confirmed that she has no intention of returning to the spotlight if the sport makes a comeback in the future.
Raygun’s journey highlights the pressures athletes face, not just on the field, but from public scrutiny and expectations. Her decision to step back may signal the end of her competitive career, but it doesn’t mean the dance community has seen the last of her moves.
