Recap of Day 2: 2024 WDSF World Championship Breaking Youth in Wuxi, China
The excitement continued on Day 2 of the 2024 WDSF World Championship Breaking Youth, as the Top 16 B-Girls and B-Boys competed in thrilling three-round battles. As the rounds progressed, the anticipation in Taihu Square grew, and the crowd was treated to an outstanding showcase of skill and athleticism, making the day an unforgettable spectacle.
B-Girls Finals
In the B-Girls semifinals, the intense battles saw Syssy (FRA) face off against Hiyo (JPN), while Riko (JPN) took on Hio (JPN). Although the gold seemed to be leaning toward Japan by the strong presence of their athletes on such advanced round, Syssy secured her spot in the final against Riko, leaving the bronze medal to be fought between Hio and Hiyo. Ultimately, Hio claimed the bronze, a remarkable achievement for this talented 14-year-old rising star.
The final clash between Syssy and Riko was filled with anticipation, as both athletes were familiar with each other from their fight for the last spots at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games during the Olympic Qualifier Series (OQS) events held earlier this year in May and June in Shanghai and Budapest, respectively. Syssy had earned her ticket to Paris but fell in the quarterfinals to Ami, who went on to win gold. This was Syssy’s chance for redemption facing another strong Japanese competitor. Riko, for her part, finished third in both OQS events, showing clear dominance against her competitors, but the quota distribution and top-two finishes by her compatriots Ami and Ayumi left her in tears after her last performance and without the chance to pursue her Olympic dream.
The final was a fierce competition, with both breakers showing their experience and skill honed over years of top-level events. The three rounds were full of explosive moves that had the crowd on their feet. While both delivered an exceptional performance, Syssy exhibited overwhelming confidence when, after her third round and before Riko's final routine, she gestured "3-0" to the judges before Riko’s final performance, and as if predicting the outcome, she took home the victory with a unanimous 3-0 decision after the countdown. Riko, despite the loss, received a huge ovation for her incredible performance.
B-Boys Finals
The B-Boys semifinal were equally thrilling and featured two highly anticipated matchups. On one side, Ra1on (JPN) and Tsukki (JPN) faced off to determine who would vie for gold on behalf of Japan. These two young talents, well-acquainted with each other, engaged in a closely contested battle, move by move. Ra1on ultimately secured his place in the final, ensuring another medal to what has been an incredibly successful last month for him, having recently claimed victory alongside B-Boy Shigekix and B-Girl Ami as part of Team Japan A during the WDSF Open Breaking Team 3 vs 3 Mix in late August.
The second semifinal saw Quicksilver (CHN), the only local talent left in the competition, go up against Raptor (UKR) the young Ukrainian athlete whose name is already listed among the top performers in his national team. Despite the closely matched abilities and high level of skill on display, Raptor ultimately claimed the last spot in the final. Quicksilver, however, was determined to end his journey on a high note, and in the battle for bronze, he triumphed over Tsukki, bringing the home crowd to its feet as they celebrated his medal.
In the final, Raptor gave his all, but Ra1on was eager to show he came here to stay, answering each round with intensity. At just 16 years old, Ra1on demonstrated technical brilliance, confidence, and energy that wowed both the judges and the audience. The judges recognized his remarkable performance and awarded him a unanimous victory, as Ra1on swept all three rounds and claimed the gold for Japan.
Event Success and Future Prospects
This championship has been a tremendous success, providing a platform for young breakers to showcase their talents and send a strong message to the global Breaking community: the next generation is coming in strong, with their sights set on the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar 2026.
Quote from the WDSF President
"We are truly impressed by the extraordinary talent and passion shown by the young B-Boys and B-Girls at the inaugural World Championship Breaking Youth in Wuxi. Their performances have been remarkable, and this event has set a strong foundation for the future of Breaking on the global stage."
Shawn Tay, WDSF President
Watch the Battles
For those who missed the live action, the final battles can be rewatched on our Breaking for Gold YouTube channel, where all the highlights of this extraordinary event are available.
Acknowledgments
The WDSF would like to once again express its heartfelt thanks to the Chinese DanceSport Federation, Olympic Solidarity, and all the participating athletes and teams for their unwavering support. Their efforts in providing a world-class platform have showcased a strong commitment to the growth and promotion of DanceSport, setting a powerful example for the future of the discipline.
Stay tuned for more updates and highlights as we bring you all the action from Wuxi!
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