Did India really win the first-ever breakdancing match at the Paris Olympics?

As India grappled with the disappointment of a silver medal in javelin throw, the Paris Olympics 2024 stage was set ablaze with a different kind of Indian triumph. The name ‘India’ echoed through the arena, igniting hopes of a historic gold. However, a surprising revelation unfolded: the ‘India’ who had captured the world’s attention was not a representative of the nation, but an 18-year-old Dutch breaking sensation, India Sardjoe.

Competing under her real name, Sardjoe defied the norm in the world of breakdancing, where stage names are commonplace. Her journey to the Olympics was nothing short of meteoric, culminating in a historic victory in the opening match against refugee team member B-girl Talash. With this win, Sardjoe etched her name in the annals of Olympic history as the first-ever breaking gold medalist.

India’s journey to Olympic gold began far from the spotlight. A childhood immersed in football transitioned into a passion for hip-hop, eventually leading her to the electrifying world of breakdancing. Her talent was undeniable; at just 10, she clinched the Dutch national championship in the Under-12 category. An astonishing rise to prominence followed, with Dutch, European, and world titles secured within a mere six months in 2022.

B-Girl India 💥

Catch up with European breaking champion India Sardjoe as she dives into her journey in breaking, Paris 2024 and beyond in the new original series, 'Athletes to Watch Paris 2024' here ➡️ https://t.co/i5cHCIgV5q#Paris2024 | @TeamNLtweets pic.twitter.com/tNNmZ2Bq20

— The Olympic Games (@Olympics) March 20, 2024

The confusion surrounding an Indian representative in breaking at the Paris Olympics has since been clarified. While India fielded a strong contingent of 117 athletes across various disciplines, capturing six medals, the country did not participate in the breaking event. The competition saw a fierce battle among Canada, Japan, France, Lithuania, China, and the United States.

Know all about breakdancing

Breaking, a high-octane dance form, emerged from the vibrant hip-hop culture of the Bronx, New York, in the 1970s. Rooted in the energy of block parties, it quickly gained recognition for its athleticism, creativity, and the dynamic interplay between dancers, DJs, and MCs. Characterised by acrobatic moves, intricate footwork, and a competitive spirit, breaking transcended borders to become a global phenomenon by the 1990s.

India wins the first match in Breakdancing History

Yes, You read it right …..!! 😬

India Sardjoe known as "B-Girl India" from the Netherlands beat refugee team member B-Girl Talash in the first ever breaking battle at the Olympics.

📸 – @Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/mPRuFTOVMN

— The Khel India 2.0 (@BharatAtOlympic) August 9, 2024

The Paris Olympics marked a historic moment for breaking, as it made its debut on the world’s biggest sporting stage. Previously introduced at the 2018 Youth Olympics, the dance form’s inclusion in Paris 2024 solidified its position as a recognized sport.

India Sardjoe, the Dutch breaking sensation who captured gold, expressed her excitement about the milestone. “It’s the first time Breaking is at the Olympics.”,” she shared, while speaking to the Olympics committee. “It is such a highlight in the Breaking world.”

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