In a surprising turn of events, Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn, known by her stage name Raygun, has announced her departure from competitive breakdancing. This decision follows the intense scrutiny she faced after her performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

A Viral Olympic Moment That Sparked Controversy

Raygun's participation in the women's breaking competition at the Paris Olympics catapulted her into the global spotlight. Her unconventional moves, including the "kangaroo hop," garnered widespread attention and sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. While some praised her unique style, others were less kind, leading to a barrage of memes and critical commentary.

Facing the Backlash: Raygun's Response

In the aftermath of her Olympic performance, Raygun addressed the criticism, expressing that the negative reactions were "pretty devastating." She emphasized that she had trained diligently for the Olympics and gave her all during the competition. Despite the backlash, she received support from fans who found her performance inspiring.

Stepping Away from the Competitive Scene

On November 5, during an appearance on the Jimmy & Nath Show, Raygun revealed her decision to step back from competitive breakdancing.

She stated, "I'd still break, but I'm not going to compete anymore." She explained that the heightened scrutiny and the potential for her performances to be filmed and shared online have altered the experience of competing, making it less enjoyable for her.

Clarifying Her Stance: Not a Complete Retirement

Raygun later appeared on Australia's The Project to clarify that she is not retiring from breakdancing altogether. She plans to continue dancing in non-competitive settings, such as community jams and personal practice sessions. She emphasized that while she is stepping away from elite competitions, her passion for dance remains strong.

The Future of Breakdancing in the Olympics

It's noteworthy that breakdancing, which made its Olympic debut in 2024, is not included in the list of sports for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This development may have influenced Raygun's decision to step back from competitive breakdancing, as the platform for showcasing the sport on such a global stage will not be available in the next Olympic cycle.

A Personal Decision Amid Public Scrutiny

Raygun's choice to leave the competitive scene highlights the personal toll that public scrutiny can have on athletes.

While her Olympic performance brought her unprecedented attention, it also subjected her to intense criticism. By stepping away from competitions, she aims to preserve her love for breakdancing without the added pressure of public judgment.

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