As the dust settles on the 2024 Paris Olympics, the debut of breakdancing as an Olympic sport remains a topic of heated discussion. This milestone event, occurring just a year after hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, marks a significant moment for the culture’s global recognition.
LL Cool J, a hip-hop icon, recently shared his thoughts on the subject during an interview on SiriusXM’s CTRL, ALT, D-Stroy show.
“I’m so happy about hip hop culture,” he said, expressing his hope that breaking would return for the 2028 games. “I do know that the breakers will be even better in the 2028 games. There were a lot of great ones out there, don’t get me wrong, but I think that it will only get better and stronger.”
The inclusion of breakdancing in the Olympics represents a culmination of decades of evolution. From its roots in the Bronx in the 1970s to its global spread, breaking has become a powerful form of self-expression and competition. The Olympic stage offered a platform for this art form to showcase its athleticism, creativity, and cultural significance to a worldwide audience.
However, the historic nature of breaking’s Olympic debut was overshadowed by controversy surrounding Australian contestant Rachael Gunn, known as Raygun. Her unconventional performance, which included moves like the “kangaroo hop,” drew widespread criticism and ridicule. Questions arose about her skill level and the legitimacy of her selection, though Ausbreaking, the official Australian breakdancing body, firmly denied any impropriety in the selection process.
Despite the backlash, Raygun defended her approach, emphasizing the importance of originality and artistic expression in breaking. This controversy highlights the ongoing debate about judging criteria and the balance between tradition and innovation in the sport.
As breaking faces an uncertain Olympic future, having already been excluded from the 2028 Los Angeles games, the community remains hopeful. LL Cool J’s words echo the sentiments of many: “You just have to give it some time and I feel good about it man. I love this culture. I love hip hop, man. I love it.”
