Australian Olympian Rachael Gunn, popularly known as breakdancer “Raygun”, has recently opened up about the online abuse she has endured following a petition calling for an investigation into her performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Gunn, a 36-year-old Sydney university professor, faced significant backlash after failing to score a single point in her three round robin dance-offs. Despite the criticism, she has expressed gratitude for the support she has received and emphasized the effort and dedication she put into preparing for the competition.
Gunn gained attention for her unique performances, including one dubbed the “kangaroo dance”, which led to her losing all three match-ups with a score of 54-0. Despite the challenges she faced on the international stage, Gunn remains proud to have represented Australia in breakdancing’s Olympic debut. In a heartfelt Instagram video, she thanked her supporters for their positivity and acknowledged the hurtful impact of the online hate she has received.
The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has condemned the online petition demanding an investigation into Gunn’s selection, labeling it as “vexatious, misleading, and bullying”. The petition, which garnered over 45,000 signatures, prompted the AOC to take action and request its removal from Change.org. The committee emphasized that Gunn was chosen through a transparent and independent qualification process and defended her against the unfounded attacks.
Gunn’s Response to Online Abuse
In her candid video message, Gunn expressed her appreciation for the support she has received from fans and well-wishers. She acknowledged the joy her performances brought to people’s lives and the unexpected backlash that followed. Despite the hurtful comments and criticism, Gunn maintained that she took her Olympic journey seriously and dedicated herself to the sport of breakdancing.
“I just want to start by thanking all the people who have supported me. I really appreciate the positivity and I’m glad I was able to bring some joy into your lives. That’s what I hoped. I didn’t realise that that would also open the door to so much hate, which has frankly been pretty devastating. While I went out there and I had fun, I did take it very seriously. I worked my butt off preparing for the Olympics. I gave my all — truly. I’m honoured to have been a part of the Australian Olympic team and to be part of breaking’s [breakdancing’s] Olympic debut,” Gunn expressed.
Her response highlights the emotional toll of online abuse and the resilience required to navigate public scrutiny as an athlete. Despite the challenges she faced, Gunn’s determination to represent her country with pride and dedication shines through in her words.
AOC’s Defense of Gunn
The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) swiftly came to Gunn’s defense in the face of the online petition calling for an investigation into her selection. AOC chief executive Matt Carroll denounced the petition as “vexatious, misleading, and bullying”, emphasizing that it incited public hatred without factual basis. Carroll reiterated that Gunn was selected through a transparent process and deserved respect for her dedication to the sport.
“The petition has stirred up public hatred without any factual basis. No athlete who has represented their country at the Olympic Games should be treated in this way and we are supporting Dr Gunn and Anna Meares at this time,” Carroll stated.
The AOC’s strong stance against the petition underscores its commitment to protecting athletes from unwarranted attacks and standing up against online harassment. By defending Gunn and upholding the integrity of the selection process, the committee sends a clear message that athletes should be judged based on their performance and merit, rather than subjected to baseless accusations.
Support for Gunn and Meares
In light of the online abuse directed at Gunn, Australian Olympic Chef de Mission Anna Meares has also faced scrutiny and backlash. Meares, a respected figure in Australian sports, defended Gunn during a media conference, emphasizing the importance of standing by athletes in the face of adversity. The AOC expressed its support for both Gunn and Meares, denouncing the attacks on their character and qualifications.
Carroll highlighted the role of the AOC Selection Committee, of which Meares and he are members, in the nomination and qualification process. He clarified that Meares played no part in selecting athletes for the Olympic team and should not be targeted for criticism related to Gunn’s performance. The committee’s unwavering support for Gunn and Meares reflects a commitment to upholding the values of fairness and respect in sports.
The petition calling for an investigation into Gunn’s selection has since been flagged for review by Change.org moderators, citing potential contested facts. The AOC’s response to the petition underscores the need for responsible and accurate representation of athletes in the public sphere. By addressing the online abuse and defending the integrity of the selection process, the committee reaffirms its commitment to supporting athletes and upholding the values of sportsmanship and fair play.
As Gunn continues to navigate the aftermath of the Paris 2024 Olympics, her resilience and determination serve as a testament to the strength of athletes facing adversity. The outpouring of support from fans and the AOC’s defense against online abuse highlight the importance of standing by athletes in challenging times. Gunn’s journey as an Olympian reflects the highs and lows of competitive sports, reminding us of the human stories behind the performances on the global stage.