Australian Olympic breaker Rachael ‘Raygun’ Gunn retires

Sydney, Australia – Australian Breaker Rachael Gunn Retires from Competition

Australian breaker Rachael Gunn recently announced her decision to retire from competition just three months after her controversial routine at the Paris Olympics garnered widespread attention and criticism. The 37-year-old Sydney university lecturer faced backlash for her unconventional moves, including a kangaroo hop, during the competition where she failed to score in all three rounds.

Originally intending to continue competing, Gunn revealed in an interview with Sydney radio station 2DayFM that the negative experience had a profound impact on her mental well-being. She expressed feeling overwhelmed by the scrutiny and public perception, ultimately leading to her retirement from the sport.

Breaking, a new addition to the Olympic program in Paris, may not feature in future Games, raising questions about the legacy of the sport at the international level. Gunn, known as “Raygun” in the breaking community, became a target of online ridicule and conspiracy theories surrounding her qualification for the Olympics.

Despite the backlash, Gunn stood by her qualification process, citing her victory at the Oceania championships as a direct pathway to the Games. She addressed the misconceptions and misinformation circulating online, emphasizing the importance of integrity and respect within the breaking community.

In a televised interview on Australia’s Channel 10, Gunn recounted the challenges of navigating public scrutiny and media attention following her performance in Paris. The intense backlash and social media mockery took a toll on her mental health, prompting her decision to step back from competitive breaking.

While Gunn has retired from formal competition, she remains passionate about breaking and continues to dance in a more private setting. She shared that she still practices in her living room with her partner, highlighting the personal joy and connection to the art form that transcends the competitive arena.

As Gunn transitions into a new chapter post-retirement, her story serves as a reminder of the complexities and pressures faced by athletes in the spotlight. Despite the challenges, her resilience and dedication to breaking shine through, leaving a lasting impact on the sport and its community.