Breakdancer Raygun dubbed ‘Queen of Australia’ in new viral video after performance at Olympics – but not everyone agrees: ‘Made a mockery of the sport’

Australian breakdancer Raygun has become an overnight sensation after her performance in Paris during the 2024 Olympic Games went viral last Friday.

The 36-year-old, whose real name is Rachael Gunn, attracted attention after she moved awkwardly on the dance floor, showing she was far less talented than many of her competitors.

On Saturday, she was hailed as ‘the Queen of Australia’ in a new viral video shared on Facebook by comedians The Inspired Unemployed.

In the clip, she dances with the duo through the street and shows off the skills that made her famous.

However, not everyone was impressed: several comments below the video contained sharp criticism of the athlete.

“Pathetic! She has made a mockery of the sport and taken away a real Australian breakdancer’s chance,” one person wrote.

“This is what happens when you give out participation prizes…” said another person, while another added, “OMG! Don’t encourage her! It was embarrassing the first time.”

“This made me so angry. You know how many EXCELLENT breakdancing champions there are in Australia,” said someone else.

“They take it seriously and are damn talented and amazing to watch. How was this woman selected to represent us over other experts??” they added.

“The worst Australian Olympian ever, I wouldn’t describe her as iconic,” said another.

Others defended the dancer. One person said: ‘What have all these ashamed and insulted people done for the country?

Raygun has certainly brought a lot of joy. Giving it a try and having fun along the way is the definition of Australian spirit I think, they added.

“She’s an icon! Leave her alone! She represented our country! And everyone is talking about her! Enjoy the ride, kids!” someone else said.

Another added: ‘This woman has more talent in her pinky than half the commentators. Never stop dancing!!!!’

Raygun participated in three qualifying rounds on Friday and the Australian ultimately failed to score a single point against her three rivals.

However, she is Australia’s top breakdancer and a creative arts researcher specialising in ‘the cultural politics of breakdance’ at Macquarie University in Sydney.

Shortly after her appearance on the world stage, she broke her silence by share a cryptic message on Instagram.

She reposted a post from the “Breaking for Gold” account, quoting herself: “Don’t be afraid to be different. Go out there and represent yourself, you never know where that will take you.”

While many found Raygun’s “embarrassing” performance ridiculous, she also gained many new fans who praised her for her determination to compete against athletes more than half her age.

“I could live my whole life and never think of anything as funny as Raygun, the 36-year-old Australian breakdancer competing in the Olympics,” one user on X wrote alongside a clip of the Olympian.

“I’ve never seen breaking before, but I already know Raygun doesn’t stand a chance in this event,” added another.

“When a ray gun breaks, it’s like me going to my mom at 5 and saying, ‘Look what I can do,’” a third joked.

Others praised the Australian woman for her confidence and courage.

“Many thanks to Raygun for having the guts to come out,” one user suggested. “But this was the most secondhand embarrassment I’ve ever felt.”

“Raygun from Australia is actually my Olympic hero,” added another.

Meanwhile, a sixth user wrote: “Raygun I’m sure you’re a sweet lady but man,” with a laughing and crying emoji.