Aussie Breakdancer Raygun Speaks Out on Viral Olympics Performance Backlash

Rachael “Raygun” Gunn is finally addressing the public response to her viral breakdancing performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The 36-year-old Olympian found herself at the center of intense public scrutiny after representing Australia with her breakdancing routine at the Paris Games. Following an overwhelming amount of hateful comments and becoming the subject of numerous internet memes, Raygun is now breaking her silence.

In a new video shared on her Instagram on Thursday, Aug. 15, Raygun opened up about facing “so much hate” after her performance went viral—an experience she described as “pretty devastating.”

“While 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,” she continued, adding, “I’m honored to have been a part of the Australian Olympic team and to be part of breaking’s Olympic debut. What the other athletes have achieved has just been phenomenal.”

The Olympian further addressed the “allegations and misinformation floating around,” seemingly alluding to unsubstantiated claims that she may have manipulated the selection process to make it to the Paris Games. The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has already deemed these claims false.

“I’d really like to ask the press to please stop harassing my family, my friends, the Australian breaking community, and the broader street dance community,” Raygun implored in her video. “Everyone has been through a lot as a result of this, so I ask you to please respect their privacy.”

In her caption, Raygun expressed her gratitude to those who have supported her through this difficult time.

“Thank you to all my supporters,” she wrote, while calling her loyal fans, “absolute legends 🦘.”