Breakdancing makes historic Olympic debut in Paris

The 2024 Paris Olympics made history, not just for its grand stages or the athletes, but for welcoming a new contender: breakdancing. The moves that were born in the streets, that fueled countless battles, and defined a generation, have finally stepped onto the world’s biggest stage. It’s a huge deal, not just for the dancers, but for the entire hip-hop culture.

Breakdancing is a raw, expressive form of art that tells stories, channels emotions, and showcases insane athleticism. So, breaking being a part of the Olympics, wasn’t just another event added to the list. It was the global recognition of a culture that has been shaping lives for decades.

But what made this debut truly special were the athletes who seized the moment. Ami from Japan and Phil Wizard from Canada didn’t just win—they carved their names in history. And as the world watched, breakdancing became more than just a dance; it became a force on the Olympic stage.

You never thought that hip hop would take it this far!

The Notorious B.I.G. – Juicy

The Journey to Paris 2024

Breaking’s road to the Olympic stage is as dynamic as the dance itself. Born in the Bronx during the 1970s, breaking was a raw expression of the struggles and creativity of urban youth. What started as an underground movement quickly gained traction, becoming one of the four core pillars of hip-hop culture alongside DJing, graffiti, and MCing.

Despite its explosive start, breaking experienced highs and lows over the decades. The ’80s brought breaking into the mainstream with films like Beat Street and Breakin’, but its popularity eventually waned. However, the dance form never disappeared; it evolved, with dedicated communities around the world keeping the spirit alive.

The big break for the Paris 2024 debut was when breaking debuted at the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires in 2018. The event proved that breaking could captivate audiences on a global scale. This success was undoubtedly a major factor in the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) decision to include breaking in the Paris 2024 Olympics.

This decision was part of a broader strategy by the IOC to modernize the Games and attract younger audiences. Breaking, with its mix of athleticism, artistry, and street cred, fit the bill perfectly. By including breaking alongside other urban sports like skateboarding and sport climbing, the IOC acknowledged the cultural significance and competitive potential of these disciplines.

The journey from street corners in New York to the grand stage of the Olympics is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the breaking community. And as the world watched, this dance form inspired a new generation of athletes and artists alike.

The Competitions

The breakers were judged on six key criteria: creativity, personality, technique, variety, performativity, and musicality. This wasn’t just about who could pull off the most tricks; it was about who could tell a story with their moves, who could connect with the crowd, and who could embody the essence of breaking while still pushing its boundaries. The judges had the tough job of scoring these athletes, and every move was scrutinized.

For the B-girls, Ami from Japan emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Her performances were a masterclass in precision and flair, leaving the judges and audience in awe. Meanwhile, in the B-boy division, Canada’s Phil Wizard showed why he’s one of the best in the world. His combination of technical brilliance and raw creativity made him unstoppable.

But it wasn’t just about the gold medalists. The silver and bronze winners also brought their A-game, reminding everyone that breaking is a global art form with deep talent pools. Dominika Banevič (Nicka) from Lithuania and Liu Qingyi (671) from China took silver and bronze in the B-girl division, while France’s Dany Dann and the USA’s Victor Montalvo claimed silver and bronze in the B-boy division.

The Paris 2024 breaking competitions were more than just battles—they were a celebration of the culture and a glimpse into the future of possibilities.

B-Girl Gold: Ami from Japan

Ami Yuasa, known simply as Ami hails from Japan, where she has been dominating competitions for years. At Paris 2024, Ami brought her A-game to every round. From the group stages to the knockout rounds, she displayed a level of consistency and flair that ultimately earned her the first-ever Olympic gold medal in Breakdancing.

In the final battle, Ami faced off against Dominika Banevič, also known as Nicka, from Lithuania. Both put up impressive displays of talent and dedication. Nicka put up a fierce fight, earning the silver medal.

Ami’s win is more than just a personal triumph; it’s a monumental moment for Hip Hop, Japan, and the global breaking community. In a art form that has often been dominated by male figures, Ami’s success and being the first gold medalist in breakdancing for men or women is a powerful statement of what B-girls can achieve. Her victory will no doubt inspire a new generation of dancers, particularly young women, to pursue their passion for breaking.

But Ami isn’t just resting on her win. In interviews, she’s expressed her desire to continue pushing the boundaries of breaking, to keep evolving her style, and to remain at the top of her game. With her Olympic gold, Ami has solidified her place in breaking history, but for her, the journey is far from over.

B-Boy Gold: Phil Wizard from Canada

Phil Wizard, whose real name is Philip Kim, represented Canada on the Olympic stage in Paris 2024. Phil didn’t just participate, he earned a hard-won gold medal in the B-boy division. His journey to the top is a testament to years of hard work, creativity, and an unrelenting passion for the art of breaking.

Phil has carved out a niche for himself as one of the most versatile and innovative B-boys in the world. He has the ability to fuse complex power moves with intricate footwork. But more than his technical prowess, it’s Phil’s obvious love for the art and community shown through his movements captivated the Olympic audience.

In Paris, Phil Wizard faced some of the toughest competition on the planet. The final battle was a showdown between Phil and France’s own Dany Dann. The stakes couldn’t have been higher, especially with Dany Dann performing in front of a home crowd. Dany Dann’s performance was strong, earning him the silver medal.

Phil Wizard’s gold medal is a significant moment not just for him, but for Canada’s breaking community. It’s a recognition of the hard work and dedication that breakers across the country have put in over the years. For Phil, winning Olympic gold is the culmination of years of training, battling, and perfecting his craft. But like any true artist, Phil sees this as just another step in his journey.

In interviews after his win, Phil expressed gratitude for the support he’s received and spoke about his hopes for the future of breaking. He’s excited to see how the sport will grow with its new Olympic status and is eager to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in breaking.

Salute to All Our Olympic Breakers

While gold often grabs the headlines, the breakers who claimed silver and bronze at Paris 2024 deserve just as much recognition and respect. These athletes put everything on the line, showcasing incredible skill, resilience, and artistry that earned them a place on the podium.

In the B-girl division, Dominika Banevič, known as Nicka, took home the silver for Lithuania. Nicka’s silver is a testament to her talent and hard work, and it highlights Lithuania’s growing presence in the global breaking scene.

Liu Qingyi, who goes by 671, secured the bronze medal for China. The 17-year-old Qingyi goes by the name 671 as it sounds like the pronunciation of her name in Chinese.

On the B-boy side, Dany Dann of France earned the silver medal. Competing on home turf, Dany Dann had the crowd behind him every step of the way. Dany Dann’s silver is a proud achievement and a reflection of France’s strong breaking culture.

Victor Montalvo from the United States claimed the bronze, adding another accolade to his already storied career. The bronze medal is a well-deserved honor for a B-boy who consistently pushes the boundaries of the sport.

These athletes have shown that breaking isn’t just about winning gold—it’s about the passion, dedication, and heart that go into every move. Their performances in Paris 2024 have set a high bar for future competitions, and they’ve inspired countless others to pursue their own breaking journeys.

Watch care home seniors celebrate the Olympic debut of breakdancing.

The Cultural Impact

The inclusion of breaking in the Paris 2024 Olympics is a cultural milestone that goes far beyond the competition itself. For decades, breaking has been more than just a dance—it’s been a powerful form of self-expression, a way for marginalized communities to tell their stories and assert their identities. Now, with its place on the world’s biggest stage, breaking has solidified its role as a global cultural phenomenon.

One of the most significant impacts of breaking’s Olympic debut is the validation it brings to hip-hop culture. Breaking emerged from the streets of the Bronx in the 1970s, born out of the struggles and creativity of Black and Latino youth. It was a way to channel energy, frustration, and joy into something positive and expressive. Over the years, breaking evolved, spreading across the world and influencing countless aspects of music, fashion, and even language.

For breaking, the Olympics is a dream realized. It’s not just about the medals—though those are important—but about the recognition of breaking as a legitimate art form.

Moreover, the cultural impact is felt globally. Nations like Japan, Canada, Lithuania, and China have all seen their breakers rise to the occasion, representing their countries with pride. This global participation underscores breaking’s universal appeal and its ability to bring together people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. It’s a reminder that hip-hop, at its core, is about unity and community.

The Olympic spotlight on breaking also opens up new opportunities for the sport. Increased media coverage, sponsorships, and support from institutions that may have previously overlooked breaking will potentially follow. This could lead to more organized events, better training facilities, and a broader acceptance of breaking as a respected art and culture.

But beyond the immediate benefits, the inclusion of breaking in the Olympics is a powerful statement about the evolution of the Games themselves. The IOC’s decision to embrace breaking, along with other urban sports like skateboarding and surfing, reflects a shift towards inclusivity and relevance. It’s a recognition that the Olympic Games must evolve with the times, embracing new forms of athleticism and creativity.

As we look to the future, the cultural impact of breaking’s Olympic debut will continue to unfold. Although Breaking is not one the schedule for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, leaving future appearances in doubt, what’s certain is that breaking has come a long way from its roots, and its journey is far from over. The Paris 2024 Olympics have not just made history—they’ve set the stage for a new chapter in the story of breaking.

Celebrating the Positive Legacy of Breaking’s Olympic Debut

The Paris 2024 Olympics will be remembered for many things, but one of the most significant milestones was the debut of breaking on the world’s biggest stage. This historic event marked a moment of recognition for an art form and culture that has influenced generations. The victories of Ami from Japan and Phil Wizard from Canada symbolize the resilience, talent, and creativity of Hip Hop culture.

Of course, no historic event is without its challenges. The b-girl division witnessed some moments that sparked intense debate and criticism, leading to discussions about what truly represents breaking. While these moments are part of the narrative, it’s important that they don’t overshadow the greater achievement of breaking’s inclusion in the Olympics. This event was about more than individual performances—it was a celebration of a culture stepping into the global spotlight.

As we reflect on this moment, it’s crucial to focus on the positives. Breaking’s presence at the Olympics has opened doors and ignited conversations about its future. Currently, breaking is not scheduled to return for the next Olympics in Los Angeles. But the impact of this debut shows us the potential for breaking to continue evolving on the Olympic stage. If we, as supporters and members of the culture, emphasize the successes and the significance of this event, we can make a compelling case for its return in future games.

Let’s ensure that the legacy of breaking’s Olympic debut is one of pride, celebration, and hope for what’s to come. The energy, skill, and passion displayed in Paris have set the stage for a bright future—one where breaking continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. It’s up to us to keep that momentum going and show the world why breaking and breakdancers deserve respect and belong in the Olympics.