The summer in Paris is about to ignite with energy as breaking makes its Olympic debut this year. In a dynamic move to captivate younger audiences, breaking has been added to the Olympic schedule, joining surfing and skateboarding, which return for their second Games alongside sport climbing and 3×3 basketball.
Mark your calendars for August 9 and 10, when B-boys and B-girls will engage in electrifying solo battles at Place de la Concorde. Competitors will showcase their prowess through a combination of power moves—windmills, the 6-step, and freezes—improvising to the rhythm to impress the judges and vie for the inaugural Olympic breaking medals.
For the global breaking community, this inclusion is a profound affirmation of their art form and years of dedication. The integration of breaking into the Olympics not only elevates street dance to a global stage but also bridges cultural divides through the universal language of movement.
Among the trailblazers set to make history are street dance luminaries: Uno Santa, a three-time world street dance champion from Japan who brings artistry and charisma; Nicolas Monlouis Zyko, a French artist, dancer, and choreographer known for his innovative styles; Aleshonkov Denis, a professional B-boy from Russia with dynamic flair; and Zhang Hong, a talented B-girl and cyclist from the Chinese mainland whose versatility breaks norms.
These artists embody the spirit of breaking’s evolution and are eager to share how its Olympic inclusion opens new avenues for growth. They aim to inspire a new generation and foster the spread of hip-hop culture across borders.
“This is more than a competition; it’s a cultural exchange,” says Zhang Hong. “We’re bringing our stories, our backgrounds, and our passion to the world stage.”
As the Olympic Games approach, the anticipation builds. The cypher is about to start, and it’s set to redefine the boundaries between sport and art. Get ready for an unforgettable showcase where rhythm meets athleticism, and individuality shines.
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Watch: Beyond the Games – 'Breaking' cultural barriers through dance
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