By Ezekiel David
Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn, known as B-girl Raygun, has spoken out following intense online criticism of her routines at the Paris Olympics.
In a video posted on Instagram Thursday, the 36-year-old expressed her gratitude for the support she received but admitted the negative reactions have been “devastating.”
Gunn, who became the subject of numerous memes after a clip of her performance went viral, said she didn’t expect the level of hate that followed her Olympic debut. One move, where she kicked a leg while leaning back, was quickly nicknamed the “kangaroo” by social media users.
Gunn stressed that she was proud to represent Australia in breaking at the Games and that she took her Olympic preparations seriously, despite the jeers.
Although she made reference to statements from the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) supporting the selection process, she avoided explicitly addressing suspicions regarding her selection.
Earlier, Matt Carroll, CEO of AOC, denounced as “bullying and harassment” a petition that claimed Gunn had manipulated the selection process. In addition, the Australian Breaking Organization backed Gunn, attesting to the impartiality of the qualifying procedure and opposing the cyberbullying she has experienced.
Although Gunn gave it her all, she did not perform as well as some of her rivals, according to chief judge Martin Gilian for the Olympic breaking competition. Anthony Albanese, the prime minister, added his voice and commended her efforts.
Gunn ended her message by asking for privacy for her family and the breaking community, saying she would address questions after taking some time off in Europe.