The Olympics, a stage for some of the world’s oldest and most traditional sports, has become an arena where the new and modern meet the historic and time-honored. Every four years, while ancient sports like track and field or wrestling take center stage, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) injects fresh energy into the Games by introducing new, vibrant sports. This strategy is designed to engage younger audiences and reflect the evolving landscape of global athletics.
For the 2024 Paris Olympics, Breaking, more widely known as breakdancing, will make its debut on the Olympic stage. This move by the IOC is part of a broader effort to include sports with an urban edge, following the introduction of skateboarding and surfing in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Breaking’s inclusion signifies not just a nod to youth culture, but also a recognition of the sport’s global popularity and its deep roots in cultural history.
The Evolution of Breaking as an Olympic Sport
When Did Breaking Become an Olympic Sport?
Breaking’s journey to the Olympics began in December 2020, when the IOC officially announced its inclusion in the 2024 Paris Olympics. This decision marked the culmination of years of advocacy from the breaking community, who have long sought recognition of their sport on the world’s biggest athletic stage.
Breaking is unique among the sports introduced in recent years because it has not been automatically included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics program. This decision suggests that Breaking’s future as an Olympic sport could be dependent on its success in Paris. Its status as a one-and-done sport will largely hinge on its reception and popularity during the 2024 Games.
Breaking Down the Rules of Olympic Breaking
How Does Olympic Breaking Work?
Breaking at the Olympics is structured around a series of one-on-one battles. In these intense showdowns, athletes, known as B-boys and B-girls, showcase their skills to impress a panel of nine judges. The format of these battles emphasizes not just physical prowess, but also creativity, musicality, and the ability to adapt to the music on the fly.
- Rounds and Battles: Each battle consists of multiple rounds where competitors alternate in displaying their moves. The objective is to outdo the opponent by delivering a more impressive, complex, and synchronized performance.
- Power Moves: Competitors are expected to execute acrobatic spins, flips, and other high-difficulty moves. These power moves are often the highlight of any battle and require immense strength and agility.
- Top Rocking: Apart from power moves, breakers also perform “top rocking” – a series of upright dance elements that demonstrate style and rhythm before dropping to the floor.
- Judging Criteria: The judges score based on several criteria, including:
- Musicality: How well the competitor moves in sync with the rhythm and beats of the music.
- Vocabulary: The diversity of moves, including originality and the range of techniques employed.
- Creativity: The ability to innovate and adapt to the unpredictable music selection.
Despite these criteria, judging remains somewhat subjective, with each judge bringing their own interpretation to what constitutes a winning performance.
The Global Landscape of Breaking
What’s the International Landscape in Olympic Breaking?
Breaking might have originated in the Bronx, New York, during the 1970s, but its appeal has since spread across the globe, leading to a diverse and competitive international scene.
- United States: As the birthplace of Breaking, the United States boasts some of the top talent in the world. Team USA’s lineup for Paris includes B-boy Victor Montalvo, a world champion, and B-boy Jeffro, who secured his spot through late qualifiers. On the women’s side, B-girl Sunny and B-girl Logistx represent the cutting edge of American breaking talent.
- Japan: Japan has quickly established itself as a powerhouse in breaking. Led by veteran B-boy Shigekix, the Japanese team is expected to be one of the top contenders in Paris, continuing their strong international performance.
- Other Contenders: Beyond the U.S. and Japan, several countries are making significant strides in breaking. Canada, China, France, and the Netherlands have all developed competitive teams, and their athletes are expected to challenge for medals in Paris.
How to Watch Breaking at the 2024 Paris Olympics
The breaking competitions at the 2024 Paris Olympics will be broadcast live, giving global audiences a front-row seat to the sport’s Olympic debut. The women’s competition is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. ET on Friday, with the finals taking place at 2 p.m. ET. The men’s competition will follow the same schedule on Saturday.
The Future of Breaking in the Olympics
Will Breaking Be in Future Olympic Games?
The inclusion of breaking in the 2024 Paris Olympics is both a milestone and a trial run. While the sport has garnered attention and excitement, it has not yet been confirmed for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The IOC’s decision will likely depend on several factors, including the sport’s reception in Paris, its ability to attract a global audience, and its alignment with the values and goals of the Olympic movement.
Breaking’s future in the Olympics also hinges on its ability to evolve and maintain relevance. As a sport that is deeply rooted in youth culture, it must continue to innovate and resonate with younger audiences. The success of breaking at the 2024 Games could pave the way for other urban sports to join the Olympic lineup in the future.
The Cultural Significance of Breaking
Why Breaking Matters: Beyond the Olympics
Breaking’s inclusion in the Olympics is more than just a recognition of athletic prowess; it is a validation of cultural expression. Breaking, like many elements of hip-hop culture, was born out of a desire to create something positive in the face of adversity. It is a dance form that has grown from the streets of the Bronx to become a global phenomenon.
- Cultural Impact: Breaking has influenced fashion, music, and dance worldwide. Its inclusion in the Olympics brings these cultural elements into the mainstream, highlighting the importance of preserving and celebrating diverse forms of expression.
- Representation: For many in the breaking community, the Olympics represent an opportunity to showcase their culture on a global stage. It’s a chance to break stereotypes and challenge perceptions about what constitutes a sport.
The Top USA Athletes to Watch in Breaking
Who Are the Top Team USA Athletes in Breaking?
As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, all eyes will be on Team USA’s breakers, who are among the best in the world.
- B-boy Victor (Victor Montalvo): Victor Montalvo, also known as B-boy Victor, is one of the most accomplished breakers globally. Having won the 2023 World Championships in Belgium, he secured his spot at the Paris Olympics and is considered a favorite for gold. Victor has been competing for over a decade and is known for his powerful moves and creative routines.
- B-boy Jeffro: Jeffro is another top American contender. His late qualification for the Paris Olympics adds an element of unpredictability, as he has a reputation for delivering unexpected, crowd-pleasing performances.
- B-girl Sunny (Sunny Choi): On the women’s side, Sunny Choi, or B-girl Sunny, is a formidable competitor. She clinched victory at the 2023 Pan American Games, demonstrating her ability to perform under pressure and secure wins on the international stage.
- B-girl Logistx (Logan Edra): Logan Edra, known as B-girl Logistx, rounds out Team USA’s women’s lineup. She has a history of success in international competitions, including Red Bull’s BC One, and brings a fresh, dynamic style to the Olympic stage.
Best Podcasts to Follow for Breaking Olympics Updates
For those who want to stay updated on breaking’s Olympic journey, several podcasts offer in-depth analysis, interviews with athletes, and behind-the-scenes insights.
offthepodiumpod.com
Three men who dreamt of Olympic glory but have as much athletic prowess as a piece of cheese, bring you weekly Olympian interviews from every corner of the planet, as well as entertaining and insightful analysis from all things related to the Olympic Games.
Breaking Boundaries
This podcast covers breaking from its cultural roots to its rise in the competitive scene. Hosted by former breakers, it offers a mix of history and current events, with special episodes dedicated to the Olympics.
Pod Of The Rings
Pod of the Rings is specifically sport themed podcast on Olympics from The Indian Express.
Olympics.com Podcast
At Olympics.com, it tells Olympic stories year-round… and at long last. From behind the scenes in the lead-up to and on the ground of the Olympic Games Paris 2024, for in-depth interviews, one-of-a-kind guests, inspiring stories, analysts’ insights and so much more.
Breaking the Olympics
Breaking, or breakdancing, has its origins in the gang culture of 1970s New York. It evolved on the floors of huge parties, where dance replaced violence as an outlet for neighbourhood bravado. But artist and entrepreneur Michael Holman saw an opportunity to turn the nascent culture in something much larger, a scene that could have global appeal. Four decades later, breaking makes its debut as an Olympic sport, with competitors from all over the world bringing their best moves to Paris to compete for gold. This is the story of how it got there.
Keep the Flame Alive
Keep the Flame Alive® is the podcast for fans of the Olympics and Paralympics. Each week co-hosts Jill Jaracz and Alison Brown keep you up-to-date on the worlds of the Olympics and Paralympics through interviews with athletes, Gamesmakers, historians and more. We’re the cure to your case of Olympic Fever
Conclusion
The inclusion of breaking in the 2024 Paris Olympics is a landmark moment for the sport and its global community. While its future in the Olympics is not yet certain, the debut in Paris will undoubtedly be a showcase of athleticism, creativity, and cultural significance. Whether you’re a long-time fan of breaking or new to the scene, the 2024 Games promise to deliver an exciting and dynamic addition to the Olympic lineup.
About Author
The Podcasting Research Team is a dynamic and passionate group of young researchers who are dedicated to exploring the world of podcasting. Whether you’re a podcast creator, a marketer, or simply a curious listener, the work of The Podcasting Research Team can provide valuable insights into the trends and best practices in the podcasting world.
