Rachael “Raygun” Gunn was a breaker of social media when she competed in the 2024 Olympics.
The breakdancer, an Australian university lecturer with a Ph.D. in cultural studies, was the target of hateful comments from internet trolls after her viral performance during the sport’s Olympic debut Aug. 9, during which she lost all three of her B-Girl round-robin battles. And Australia’s Olympic chief was not having it.
“I love Rachael,” Chef de mission Anna Meares said about the 36-year-old at a press conference Aug. 10, per Reuters. “and I think that what has occurred on social media with trolls and keyboard warriors, and taking those comments and giving them airtime, has been really disappointing.”
The executive continued, “Raygun is an absolutely loved member of this Olympic team. She has represented the Olympic team, 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 has come under the attack that she has.”
