China's Breakdancing Phenom Aims for World Gold

Seventeen-year-old breakdancer Royal, whose real name is Guo Pu, is a prominent figure in China's burgeoning breakdancing community. She recently won both the youth and adult Asian Championships, showcasing the nation's growing prowess in a sport that debuted at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Royal is now setting her sights on the World Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, aiming to secure a gold medal for China and demonstrate the sport's increasing 'coolness' on a global stage.

Royal's journey began with her coach Mike recognizing her passion, overcoming initial parental reservations. China's breakdancing scene has seen significant development, with government support and increased parental acceptance fueling its expansion. This growth is evident as China secured five out of six medals at the youth World Championships recently, highlighting a promising next generation of talent, including Royal and fellow competitor '671'.

The sport's inclusion in the Olympics has spurred intensive development in China. While achieving high technical difficulty, Chinese dancers are encouraged to deepen their understanding of breakdancing's cultural origins to foster greater innovation and artistry. Royal herself aims to inspire younger B-girls by sharing the history and culture of breaking, and by developing a unique style for female dancers.