Rachael “Raygun” Gunn, the B-girl who gained viral fame for her performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, recently addressed the backlash she received for her routine. Gunn expressed gratitude towards her supporters while condemning the hate she faced from critics.
Despite her intention to bring joy through her performance, Gunn was taken aback by the overwhelming negativity directed towards her. The 36-year-old athlete faced criticism for failing to score points in her initial matches, prompting questions about her selection to represent Australia at the Olympics.
A petition challenging the validity of Gunn's participation amassed over 50,000 signatures before being removed. The Australian Olympic Committee denounced the petition, emphasizing Gunn's dedication and hard work in preparing for the Olympics.
While Gunn acknowledged the seriousness with which she approached her performance, she highlighted the importance of conducting thorough research to discern fact from misinformation. She urged the media and fans to respect the privacy of her loved ones who have also been affected by the situation.
Despite the mixed reactions to her routine, Gunn's creative moves, including a kangaroo hop, captivated audiences and garnered attention. While some criticized her performance, others, including Jimmy Fallon, found it entertaining.
Chief breaking judge Martin Gilian defended Gunn, emphasizing the significance of originality and representation in breaking. Gilian praised Gunn for embodying the essence of breaking and hip hop by introducing unique elements inspired by her surroundings.
Amidst the controversy, Gunn expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in breaking's Olympic debut and encouraged a deeper understanding of her artistic choices. She plans to address further inquiries upon her return to Australia.
