Breaking Boundaries: Debut of New and Returning Sports at Paris 2024 Olympics

The Paris 2024 Olympics will introduce breaking (competitive breakdancing) and new events like kayak cross and kiteboarding. Meanwhile, sports such as climbing, skateboarding, and surfing are returning. Notable athletes include Victor Montalvo and Daniela Moroz. Changes include new events in athletics, artistic swimming, and alterations in boxing and shooting.

The Paris 2024 Olympics, commencing this Friday, will showcase the debut of breaking, a competitive form of breakdancing, alongside returning sports like climbing, skateboarding, and surfing from the Tokyo Games.

Breaking, an urban dance style originating from the Bronx in the 1970s, will be a highlight in the Paris 2024 programme. Noteworthy contenders include twice World DanceSport Federation (WDSF) championship winner Victor Montalvo and Canadian Philip Kim (Phil Wizard) in the B-Boy category, and 17-year-old Nicka of Lithuania in the B-Girl category.

Kayak cross, an extreme form of canoe slalom, will feature for the first time, introducing head-to-head competition. World champions Joe Clarke of Britain and Australia's Jessica Fox are top favorites.

Kiteboarding, another new addition, will compete in the Formula Kite format. American Daniela Moroz and Singapore's Maximilian Maeder lead the rankings in their respective categories.

Significant changes include the fast-paced format of modern pentathlon, the debut of mixed team walking race, and the inclusion of men in artistic swimming. New weight classes and event replacements will also enhance the competition.