Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn, known as B-girl Raygun, has spoken out against the overwhelming backlash she has received following her performance at the Paris Olympics. Gunn, who competed in the inaugural Olympic breaking competition, lost all three of her round robin battles and has been the subject of intense criticism online and in mainstream media.
Gunn took to Instagram to express her disappointment, saying, “I really appreciate the positivity, and I’m glad I was able to bring some joy into your lives. That’s what I hoped. I didn’t realise that that would also open the door to so much hate which has, frankly, been pretty devastating.”
She emphasized that she had dedicated herself to her training and gave her all at the Games, stating, “Well, I went out there and I had fun – I did take it very seriously. I worked my butt off preparing for the Olympics and I gave my all. Truly.”
The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has also condemned a Change.org petition that called for an investigation into Gunn’s selection for the Olympics, which has gathered over 54,000 signatures. The AOC labeled the petition as “vexatious, misleading and bullying,” highlighting that Gunn’s selection was made through a transparent and independent qualification process.
AOC chief executive Matt Carroll said the petition had “stirred up public hatred without any factual basis.”
Amidst the public criticism, Gunn has asked for privacy for herself and her family and friends, pleading with the press to stop harassing them. “Everyone has been through a lot as a result of this, so I ask you to please respect their privacy,” she stated.
The AOC has written to Change.org to request the removal of the petition. Breaking, the dance style featured in the Olympics, will not be included in the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
