Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn, also known as Raygun, has finally spoken out after the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Raygun’s breakdancing routine went viral after she received zero points in all three rounds she competed in. The video of her performance spread quickly, making her famous for the wrong reasons. There’s even an online petition demanding that Gunn apologize for her performance.
Until now, Raygun hadn’t said anything about what happened, but she recently addressed the situation on Instagram. In a two-and-a-half-minute video, she shared that she was “devastated by the hate” she received.
In her video, Gunn thanked the people who supported her during the Paris Games, but also talked honestly about the online abuse she’s faced. She said she didn’t expect that the “joy she brought” to people would also lead to people making fun of her routine.
According to ESPN, over 40,000 people have signed a petition accusing Gunn of “manipulating” the Olympic qualification process.
PARIS, FRANCE – AUGUST 09: B-Girl Raygun of Team Australia competes during the B-Girls Round Robin – Group B on day fourteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Place de la Concorde on August 09, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
In her Instagram video, Raygun thanked everyone who supported her, saying, “I really appreciate the positivity, and I’m glad I could bring some joy into your lives. That’s what I hoped for.”
However, she admitted that she didn’t expect the hate that followed. “I didn’t realize that would also open the door to so much hate, which has been pretty devastating. But I went out there and had fun,” she said.
Raygun also responded to questions about her commitment, making it clear that she worked hard to prepare for the Olympics. “I worked my butt off preparing for the Olympics, and I gave it my all. I’m honored to have been part of the Australian team and Australia’s breaking debut. What the other athletes achieved is phenomenal,” she said.
The 36-year-old also addressed false information that’s been spreading online since her performance in Paris. One rumor claimed that she only made the Australian Olympic team because her husband was a national selector and a judge at a qualifying event. This rumor has been proven to be completely false.
The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) condemned the online petition against her, with AOC boss Matt Carroll writing to the petition’s website to demand its immediate removal.
What did you think of Rachael Gunn’s breakdancing routine? Share your thoughts in the comments.
A Heartfelt Message to the World-Famous Pop Star’s Transformation
Lana Del Rey, christened Elizabeth Woolridge Grant, has been the voice of a generation with her evocative music and deeply felt lyrics.
Her chart-toppers like “Blue Jeans” and “Video Games” solidified her position in the music industry.
Yet, lately, the spotlight on her has shifted from her musical prowess.
The Talk of the Town
With the global pandemic altering many aspects of daily life, Lana Del Rey’s noticeable physical transformation has become a topic of discussion. While it’s natural for individuals to evolve over time, the singer’s significant weight gain has brought her under undue scrutiny and, unfortunately, unwarranted criticism.
Facing the Limelight’s Shadow
Paparazzi captured the singer in 2020, and the photos soon became a focal point for negative attention. Events like the Malibu Chili Cook-Off in 2022 amplified the criticism, shifting the conversation away from her artistic contributions and more towards her personal life.
A Fandom that Stands United
Every cloud has a silver lining, and in Lana Del Rey’s case, it’s her fiercely loyal fanbase. Fans globally have taken to their platforms to counter the negativity, championing the hashtag #WeLoveYouLana. This wave of affection reaffirms the idea that Lana’s essence is much more than just her physical form.
Reading Between the Lyrics
Dedicated followers have been delving deep into Lana Del Rey’s discography, especially the unreleased song, “Boarding School.” The lyrics hint at deep-seated issues and personal battles, prompting further speculation and concern for the singer.
Embracing the Artist
Having taken a step back from social media in 2021, Lana Del Rey chose to prioritize other avenues of her life. For those who admire her, this is a poignant reminder to appreciate artists for their craft and the depth they bring into our lives. It’s time we rally around Lana Del Rey, celebrating her artistry and hoping for her well-being in all life’s avenues.
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