Rachael ‘Raygun’ Gunn Bows Out of Competitive Breaking: A Journey from Olympic Upset to New Horizons

The Olympic Experience: Rachael Gunn qualified for the Paris Olympics by winning the 2023 Oceania Championships, and her journey was marked by both triumph and turbulence. Despite her failure to progress past the first round, her routines—featuring quirky moves like the kangaroo hop and the sprinkler—turned her into a viral sensation. Yet, the attention was not all positive; it led to rampant conspiracy theories questioning her qualifications and performance, which Gunn described as "really upsetting." Facing the Fallout: In a candid interview on 2DayFm, Gunn expressed her struggle with the scrutiny that followed her Olympic appearance. "I was going to keep competing, for sure, but that seems a really difficult thing for me to do now," she stated. The negativity surrounding her performance made it challenging for her to envision a future in competitive breaking, especially with the heightened level of public observation and criticism. The Silver Linings: Despite the backlash, Gunn's Olympic journey was not devoid of positives. Notably, her performance caught the attention of singer Adele, who praised it during a concert, calling it her "favourite thing that has happened in the Olympics." Additionally, Gunn's profile soared, leading to features in glossy magazines and promotional opportunities, including a current collaboration with a comparison website. This newfound visibility may open doors for her in various ventures beyond competitive breaking.

The Road Ahead: While Gunn may be stepping away from local competitions, she remains passionate about dance and breaking. She continues to practice in the comfort of her home, focusing on the joy it brings her rather than the competitive pressure. Her decision to retire reflects a broader conversation about mental health and athlete welfare, emphasizing the need for supportive environments in sports.