Rachael “Raygun” Gunn made waves on social media when she competed in the 2024 Olympics.
The Australian breakdancer and university lecturer, who holds a Ph.D. in cultural studies, faced a barrage of hateful comments from online trolls following her performance on August 9. During the sport’s Olympic debut, she lost all three of her B-Girl round-robin battles. Australia’s Olympic chief defended her against the backlash.
“I love Rachael,” Chef de mission Anna Meares said about the 36-year-old at a press conference Aug. 10, per Reuters. “and I think that what has occurred on social media with trolls and keyboard warriors, and taking those comments and giving them airtime, has been really disappointing.”
The executive continued, “Raygun is an absolutely loved member of this Olympic team. She has represented the Olympic team, the Olympic spirit with great enthusiasm. And I absolutely love her courage. I love her character, and I feel very disappointed for her, that she has come under the attack that she has.”
On social media, people mocked Gunn’s unique breakdancing moves, including one called “the kangaroo.” She later dismissed the negative comments.
“Don’t be afraid to be different, go out there and represent yourself,” she wrote on Instagram. “You never know where that’s gonna take you.”
The Macquarie University lecturer from Sydney also mentioned that she “was always the underdog” in the competition, which was won by Japan’s Ami Yuasa (B-Girl Ami), and she reflected on her distinctive style.
“All my moves are original,” Gunn told reporters after her performance, per News.com.au. “I was never going to beat these girls on what they do best, the dynamic and the power moves.”
She continued, “So I wanted to move differently, be artistic and creative because how many chances do you get in a lifetime to do that on an international stage?”
Trolls also mocked Gunn’s outfit, which featured a green and yellow Australian Olympic tracksuit and matching cap. In response to her fashion critics, Gunn posted on her Instagram Stories, “Looking forward to the same level of scrutiny on what the bboys wear tomorrow.”
