The debut of breakdancing at the Olympics was intended to inject youthful energy into the Games, but for one Australian competitor, it became a source of unexpected controversy. [Aus Break Dancer] University lecturer, Gunn, found herself at the center of a storm of criticism following her performance, and has spoken out about the experience.
Gunn’s Olympic journey concluded without a win in any of her three battles. However, it was her unique performance style, characterized by moves like the “sprinkler” and “kangaroo-inspired hopping,” combined with her distinctive green tracksuit, that ignited a wave of online memes and negative reactions. The unconventional routine led to accusations of manipulation in the selection process, with false claims circulating about Gunn establishing her own governing body and her husband judging her qualification trial.
Organizations such as the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) and the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF) have since publicly refuted these allegations, denouncing them as baseless conspiracy theories. Gunn, in an interview, addressed the hurtful nature of these accusations. “The conspiracy theories were just awful,” she stated, emphasizing her consistent top ranking as an Australian B-girl in previous years and numerous invitations to world championships. Despite her track record, she acknowledged that competitive battles can be unpredictable.
Defending her artistic choices, Gunn, who has a diverse dance background including jazz, tap, and ballroom, explained that her intention was to differentiate herself. “I was never going to beat these girls on what they do best, the dynamic and the power moves, so I wanted to move differently,” she said. Her perspective has found support within the breakdancing community, with the top judge of the B-Girls competition, team officials, and many in the broader Olympic breakdancing scene rallying behind her.
Despite this support, the controversy has caused division within the Australian breakdancing community. Hip-hop pioneer Spice expressed disappointment, stating that the situation “made a mockery of the Australian scene,” highlighting the pain felt by many within the community. The inclusion of breaking in the Olympics, while aimed at attracting a younger demographic, has also faced criticism. Some argue that the inherently organic and non-competitive nature of breakdancing is ill-suited for the structured environment of Olympic competition.
Following her Paris performance, Gunn appealed to the media via social media to cease “harassing” her family and friends. She described the intense media attention as “really wild” and panic-inducing, noting the irony of her “medicine,” dance, becoming a source of stress. While Gunn admitted she is not yet ready to re-watch her Olympic performance, she expressed gratitude for the support received from fellow Olympians at the Closing Ceremony and segments of the public. She concluded by stating her desire to focus on the positive aspects of her Olympic experience and the joy she brought to some viewers.
