114 Years After Struggle, This American Sport Finally Found Its Way to the Olympics 2024 Stadium

In a groundbreaking decision, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) brought an American sport to the forefront of the Olympic Games. It also symbolizes a cultural shift that recognizes the artistry, athleticism, and global appeal of this American-born sport.

This American sport has been a force in urban culture for decades. Its inclusion in the 2024 Olympics is proof of its influence and dedication by practitioners globally. People await its debut with excitement as they expect a new rhythm and energy to be brought to the Olympic stage. Uniting people of all backgrounds through a universal language, breakdancing is now making waves in the world by being included in the Olympics. 

Origins of breakdancing and its inclusion in the Olympics

The roots of breaking can be traced back to New York street corners during the 1970s before gaining international recognition that led to its official incorporation into the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF) championships in 2019. However, its road to Olympic recognition wasn’t straightforward. The WDSF initially wanted the Olympics to introduce ballroom dance back in 1909, but it didn’t happen until 2018.

Breaking finally broke through thanks to Jean-Laurent Bourquin who was the former CEO of WDSF after 114 years. “Breaking is allowing the IOC to reconnect with the youth, the generation between 15 and 25 years old,” Bourquin told The Athletic in an interview. He knew that breaking could resonate with young people, which would bring the IOC and their age group together. One million viewers tuned in to see it at the Youth Olympics, this put enough pressure on the IOC and they included it in the 2024 Olympics. 

Morris Isby, a break dancer hailing from, believes that there is nothing to be surprised about the inclusion of breaking in the Olympics. “Europe and Asia, they have been having these huge competitions for years and years and years, way before the U.S. has,”  Vicki Chang (B-Girl La Vix), an American breakdancer told the source further solidifying the statement of Isby. With the inclusion of this sport, the American breakdancers are all set to go for glory and come back victorious. 

American breakers are aiming for gold at Paris 2024

The American sport is getting ready for its Olympic debut, and Team USA is trying to make history. Only two breakers per gender can participate in each country. USA B-Boy Victor Montalvo and B-Girl Sunny Choi both secured their spots by winning the World Championships 2023 in Belgium. Thus, Montalvo became the first American breaker to qualify for the Olympics.

Commenting on his participation in the international championships all these years, Montalvo said, “A lot of people think I’m, like, humble. If you were to be in my head before a battle. I’m always thinking to myself, ‘You got this, Victor. That’s your dance floor. You’re going to smoke whoever is across from you.’”  If anyone didn’t qualify through previous events they still have a chance in the Olympic Qualifier Series from March to June. But qualifying in breakdancing for the Olympics is no easy feat, especially when there are only seven spots open for each gender.

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With fierce competition from every corner of the world, Team USA knows that they need to give it all they have. Located at the U.S. Olympic Center in Colorado Springs is their secret weapon: a tough training camp designed to make them unstoppable. They focus on stamina, musicality, and adapting to opponents, all crucial elements in this dynamic and electrifying dance sport.

The countdown has begun for the 2024 Olympics happening in Paris. Everyone is excited about what these talented athletes will bring to the breaking stage. It’s amazing how street dance has transformed into an Olympic dream of American breakers and their dedication.

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