American breaker Sunny Choi left her job as a marketing executive to join the United States’ first-ever Olympic breaking team. However, her journey in Paris ended sooner than expected, as she was eliminated from quarterfinal contention after her third battle. Despite finishing with a victory in the round-robin against Portugal’s Vanessa, Choi’s third-place ranking in her group was not enough to secure a spot in the knockout stage.
Reflecting on her decision to pursue her breaking dream and leave behind a stable corporate job at Estée Lauder, Choi expressed the initial fear and uncertainty she faced. The sacrifices went beyond financial stability, as she contemplated the impact on her personal life and future plans, including starting a family. Despite the challenges, Choi ultimately made the difficult choice to follow her passion, with the support of her employer and a clear long-term vision.
Looking ahead, Choi plans to transition to a career in dancing post-Olympics, aiming to open her own dance studio in Queens, New York. While she does not foresee a return to the corporate world unless necessary, Choi acknowledges the importance of leveraging her business skills and experience for future opportunities. She highlights the value of her marketing background in shaping her path forward and supporting her aspirations in the dance industry.
Financially, Choi had planned ahead by setting aside funds while working in marketing to support her Olympic ambitions. Sponsorships from Nike and Samsung also played a crucial role in financing her training and competition expenses. Despite financial challenges along the way, Choi managed to secure support and navigate the financial aspects of her athletic career.
Looking to the future, Choi remains hopeful for another shot at Olympic glory, potentially in the 2032 Brisbane summer Games. While breaking will not be included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Choi’s determination and dedication to her craft suggest that she will continue to pursue her passion and inspire the next generation of dancers. As she reflects on her Olympic journey and the lessons learned, Choi remains grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped her path forward in the world of dance.
