How Raygun could be set to make MILLIONS from her Olympic fame – as expert reveals the rivers of gold that await

Australian Olympic breakdancer Raygun is set to make millions from her newfound fame, according to a marketing expert.

Rachael Gunn, 36, became an international star after she failed to score a point when breaking became an Olympic sport for the first time on Friday in Paris.

During this controversial performance, participants performed kangaroo jumps, snake-like writhing movements and even the iconic Australian ‘sprinkler’ move.

The dance has sparked heated debate, as critics question how she has the qualifications to perform.

However, others, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Australian Olympic president Anna Meares, have been quick to defend her. Meares embodies the Australian ‘worth a try’ mentality.

Despite her polarising status, the Macquarie University lecturer, who holds a doctorate in her sport, is undeniably the centre of attention – a factor that is likely to lead to lucrative sponsorship deals.

Marketing and public relations expert Max Markson said that while she is a controversial figure in her home country, some of the world’s largest international companies are keen to capitalise on her fame.

“She has a huge brand,” he told Daily Mail Australia.

‘Her reputation in Australia isn’t great, but she’s famous worldwide.

‘I don’t think everyone in other countries is aware of how Australians feel about her.

‘I think Australian marketers will avoid her for that reason, but I’m sure there’s someone in this country who will.

‘She receives international offers from sports shoe brands such as Adidas or Puma, from food companies such as McDonald’s or KFC, from electric cars such as BYD and from telephone companies such as Telstra, Optus or Vodafone.

“There will also be other international companies that want her.”

According to Mr Markson, new stars normally sign contracts with three to five companies.

According to Mr Markson, the cost of a sponsorship deal for American brands such as McDonald’s or KFC is around $500,000.

If Raygun can secure five contracts at that price, she could earn $2.5 million.

Mr Markson said her financial capabilities extend beyond just marketing big brands.

“She has a PhD, she has a real background, so she will also get speaking engagements. She is also attractive to children,” he said.

“People will want her on TV too, there will be a TV appearance for her in six months.”

Over the past four days, a meme storm has erupted on social media. Gunn, who was given the chance to compete in the Olympics after winning the Oceania Championships, has been mercilessly mocked online.

Critics have questioned whether Gunn’s selection for the Olympics deprived other, more talented Australian breakdancers from competing. Others have speculated whether the performance was a deliberate prank.

British pop star Adele also joined the discussion, calling on her fans during her concert in Munich to watch Gunn’s clips, describing them as ‘the funniest thing ever’.

However, she has also built a fan base around her who praise her courage and confidence as she competes against women more than half her age. Her Instagram followers have jumped from 4,000 to more than 84,000 in the past four days.

Although she has yet to speak publicly about her performance, Raygun has since shared a post online saying: ‘don’t be afraid to be different’ and was seen dancing in front of a cheering crowd ahead of the closing ceremony in Paris.

The flood of insults prompted authorities to take measures to monitor her mental health.

Australian Olympic team chief Anna Meares backed Gunn, saying criticism of her performance was due to “sexism”.

“I love Rachael,” Meares told reporters on Saturday.

‘What has happened on social media with trolls and keyboard warriors, and picking up on those comments and giving them airtime, is downright disappointing.

‘Raygun is an absolutely beloved member of this Olympic team.

‘She has represented the Olympic team and the Olympic spirit with great enthusiasm.

“And I absolutely love her courage. I love her character and I feel very disappointed for her that she came under the attack that she did.”

Breakdancing has been removed from the programme for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, but there is no guarantee the sport will return in Brisbane in 2032 or later.