Apology from Australia’s Breakdancer “Raygun” for Paris Olympics Backlash
SYDNEY, September 4, 2024 (BSS/AFP) – Australian breakdancer Rachael “Raygun” Gunn has issued an apology for the controversy surrounding her highly criticized performance at the Paris Olympics, expressing regret for the negative impact it had on the breakdancing community at large.
In an upcoming interview with Australia’s Channel 10 scheduled to air on Wednesday, Gunn addressed the backlash she faced following her routine, which notably included a move mimicking a kangaroo hop.
Responding to a question about whether she believed she was the best female breakdancer in Australia, the 37-year-old Sydney university lecturer stated, “I believe my track record speaks for itself.”
Despite her efforts, Gunn suffered defeats in all three of her matchups against rival dancers, leading to global mockery of her performance, including from renowned late-night US television host Jimmy Fallon.
Critics, both domestically and internationally, have raised concerns over her qualification for the Olympics, with some of her fiercest detractors labeling her a source of national embarrassment. An online petition calling for a public apology from Gunn circulated briefly before being taken down.
During the interview, Gunn expressed sadness over the negative reception her routine received, acknowledging the difficulties faced by the broader breakdancing community as a result. She also apologized for the unintended repercussions, while emphasizing that individual reactions were beyond her control.
Recalling the aftermath of her performance in Paris, Gunn described feeling overwhelmed by the media attention. “It was quite a surreal experience to be chased by reporters in Paris,” she said, revealing that the scrutiny had placed her under considerable stress.
In earlier statements, Gunn had decried the intense criticism directed at her post-Olympics, describing the negative reactions as “devastating.” In an emotional video message shared in August, she defended her dedication to the sport, highlighting the rigorous preparation she had undertaken for the Olympic competition.
While Gunn faced widespread ridicule on social media, she received backing from some quarters, including fellow Australian Olympians and the country’s prime minister, who voiced support for her efforts and resilience in the face of adversity.