Breakdancing is a street dance style that originated in the United States in the 1970s. It is characterized by acrobatic moves and spins, and is often performed to hip hop music. The IOC said that breakdancing would be a "spectacular and engaging" addition to the Olympic Games.

The other three sports that were approved for the 2024 Olympics are also relatively new to the international sporting scene. Skateboarding and surfing have both been included in the Summer X Games since the early 2000s, and sport climbing has been included since 2014.

The inclusion of these sports is part of the IOC's efforts to make the Olympics more appealing to younger viewers. The IOC has also said that it wants to make the Olympics more inclusive, and the inclusion of breakdancing is a step in that direction.