The thrill of the Olympic Games is about to get even more exciting. Paris 2024 will introduce breaking, officially known as breaking, as the newest Olympic sport. Get ready to witness this electrifying art form take center stage among classic events like gymnastics and beach volleyball.
We’ll explore everything you need to know about breaking at the Paris 2024 Olympics. From its rich history to how you can watch the events, we’ll cover it all. Whether you’re part of the breaking community, a sports enthusiast, an Olympic fan, or a hip-hop aficionado, this guide is for you.
The Newest Olympic Sport at the 2024 Paris Games
Breaking will be the only new sport making its debut in Paris 2024. This inclusion represents a significant moment in Olympic history, bringing hip-hop culture to the global stage. Several other sports that debuted at the Tokyo Games will also return, but breaking is set to steal the spotlight.
A Brief History of Breaking
Breaking, also known as breakdancing, originated in New York City in the 1970s. Rooted in hip-hop culture, this dance style features athletic moves, including spins, flips, and other complex techniques. International competitions for breaking began in the 1990s, and the sport was featured at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The Breaking Competition Format
Breaking at the 2024 Olympic Games will take place at Paris’ Place de la Concorde on August 9 and 10. The competition will feature 16 female breakers (B-Girls) on the first day and 16 male breakers (B-Boys) on the second day. Each day will have a round-robin phase, where competitors face off in minute-long “battles.” The top two from each group will advance to the quarterfinals, and winners will move through the semifinals to a best-of-three final round.
Scoring the Breakers
Each battle will be scored by a panel of judges based on five categories:
- Creativity
- Personality
- Variety
- Technique
- Performativity
- Musicality
Judges will evaluate how well competitors perform their moves, how creatively they express themselves, and how effectively they execute their techniques.
Breaking Schedule at the Paris Olympics
The breaking events will unfold over two days, offering thrilling performances from the world’s best breakers. Here’s the schedule:
August 9
- Women (B-Girl) Qualification: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. ET
- Women (B-Girl) Final: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. ET
August 10
- Men (B-Boy) Qualification: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. ET
- Men (B-Boy) Final: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. ET
Where to Watch Breaking at the 2024 Olympics
You can catch all the breaking action on NBC, airing on August 9-10 at 8 p.m. ET. If you prefer streaming, you can watch the Paris Olympics on Peacock, NBCOlympics.com, and the NBC Sports app, available on Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store.
Meet the U.S. Breakers Heading to Paris
The United States will be represented in breaking by two competitors per gender. Here are the American breakers competing at the 2024 Olympics:
Men
- Victor Montalvo (Victor)
- Jeffrey Louis (Jeffro)
Women
- Sunny Choi (Sunny)
- Logan Edra (Logistx)
The Rise of Breaking in the Olympics
The inclusion of breaking in the Olympics signifies the evolution of the Games. It celebrates diverse cultures and showcases the dynamic art form of breakdancing. This decision aligns with the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) efforts to appeal to younger audiences and reflect contemporary interests.
Breaking stands out from traditional Olympic sports due to its roots in street culture and its emphasis on individual expression. Each breaker brings their unique style and personality to the floor, making every battle a captivating experience.
The Future of Breaking in the Olympics
The debut of breaking in Paris 2024 is just the beginning. As more people recognize and appreciate the athleticism and artistry involved, breaking will likely become a staple in future Olympic Games. This inclusion opens doors for other street and urban sports to join the Olympic family.
The Impact on the Breaking Community
The breaking community has long awaited this moment. The Olympic stage provides a massive platform for breakers to showcase their talents and gain global recognition. It also highlights the cultural significance of breaking, bringing it to the forefront of sports and entertainment.
How to Support Your Favorite Breakers
Supporting your favorite breakers goes beyond watching the competitions. Engage with them on social media, share their performances, and spread the word about breaking’s Olympic debut. Your support can inspire the next generation of breakers.
Getting Involved in the Breaking Community
If you’re inspired by watching breaking at the Olympics, consider joining the breaking community. Many local dance studios offer breaking classes, and online tutorials are available for beginners. Whether you’re a dancer or a fan, there’s a place for you in the breaking world.
Breaking’s debut at the Paris 2024 Olympics is a historic moment for the sport and the Olympic Games. It celebrates the rich history of hip-hop culture and brings a fresh, dynamic element to the event. By understanding the competition format, schedule, and scoring, you can fully appreciate the artistry and athleticism of breaking.
Don’t miss the chance to witness this groundbreaking sport. Tune in to NBC or stream the events on Peacock, NBCOlympics.com, and the NBC Sports app. Support your favorite breakers and join the breaking community in celebrating this monumental occasion.
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