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What is Breaking? The Unique "Urban" Discipline Making its Debut at Paris 2024
Breaking, the urban dance born in the New York City streets, has been officially embraced by the Paris 2024 Olympics, with the omnipresent Snoop Dogg kicking off the tournament.
Included as part of the new Olympic disciplines, breaking combines musical styles such as breakbeat, funk, rap, and soul. It made its debut on the grand expanse of La Concorde, near the Luxor Obelisk, with views of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.
This picturesque setting contrasts sharply with the origins of breaking in the South Bronx, where impoverished African American and Latino communities used the style as a form of self-expression and competition.
Following historic qualifying rounds in the women's category, the finals will determine the first-ever Olympic medalists in this discipline, which demands intense cardiovascular, muscular, and coordination skills.
Paris 2024's decision to include breaking has faced some criticism from those who do not view it as a sport. However, the audience appreciates the "attitude, strength, and energy" displayed by both 'b-girls' and 'b-boys'.
Judges will evaluate performances based on six criteria, including technique and creativity, with victories determined by points. Unlike skateboarding or 3x3 basketball, breaking will not be featured in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.