My Journey as Olympian Sunny Choi’s Massage Therapist

In the world of sports, massage therapy is often the unsung hero—quietly working behind the scenes to keep athletes performing at their peak. As a massage therapist and a breakdancer myself, my role in Sunny Choi's journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics was more than just a professional endeavor. It was a deeply personal experience, one that bridged my passion for dance with my dedication to helping an athlete achieve her dreams.

The Beginning of Our Partnership: A Dance of Trust and Care

It all started in 2023 when I began working with Sunny. As a break dancer myself, I knew firsthand the toll that breaking can take on the body—constant twisting, jumping, spinning, and the repeated strain on joints and muscles. This was especially true for Sunny, who was pushing her body to the limit as she trained for Olympic-level competition.

Our partnership began as a simple one: I was there to support her physically, to help her recover from the grueling training sessions and the inevitable strain that comes with high-intensity performance. At the time, Sunny had already been on a meteoric rise in the breaking world, and little did I know, I was about to become a key part of a story that would change both our lives.

Trusting the Process: Building a Relationship

As we started working together, it became clear that this was not just a typical therapist-athlete relationship. Sunny was committed to perfecting her craft, and I was equally committed to helping her preserve her body and stay injury-free. We focused on a holistic approach to her recovery—addressing everything from muscle tightness to injuries, and ensuring that her muscles were able to recover properly after hours of intense training.

Breaking requires not just athleticism but also resilience. The constant demand to perform complex movements, to endure physical strain, and to do it all without injury required an athlete who understood the importance of body care. Sunny was that athlete—focused, disciplined, and always open to what my massage therapy could do to help her. Whether it was releasing tension in her hips, improving flexibility in her shoulders, or loosening tightness in her wrists, every session we had together was aimed at keeping her body in top form for the next big challenge.

The Road to the Pan American Games: A Moment of Triumph

Our hard work together paid off in an unforgettable way. In 2023, Sunny achieved an incredible milestone—she became the first American woman in history to qualify for the sport of breaking at the Paris 2024 Olympics, securing her place by winning first place at the Pan American Games. I was there, supporting her every step of the way, and it was nothing short of inspiring to witness how far she had come.

I knew from our sessions that Sunny had a determination unlike any other, but seeing her rise to the occasion at the Pan Am Games was a testament to her commitment, her passion for the sport, and her ability to perform under pressure. As a massage therapist, I had seen how much effort she had put into her recovery, her conditioning, and her preparation. To see her standing on that podium was a moment of triumph not just for her, but for me as well.

A Full Circle Moment: Paris 2024 Olympics

When the time finally came for Sunny to compete at the Paris 2024 Olympics, I was there by her side as a fan, but as a vital part of her support team (Team Sunny). This moment was incredibly full circle for me. As a breakdancer, the inclusion of breaking in the Olympics was a dream come true, but to be a part of this historic moment in such an intimate way, working with one of the most talented breakers in the world, was an experience I will never forget.

I had the privilege of seeing Sunny perform on the world stage, doing what she loves and proving herself among the best. I watched her battle through the mental and physical challenges that come with being on the Olympic stage—something that only an athlete like her, who had put in countless hours of dedication, could endure. And through it all, I continued to support her with my massage therapy, helping to manage the physical stress of competition and ensuring she remained at her peak.

More Than Just Therapy: Building a Bond

What started as a professional relationship evolved into a true bond of trust and respect. Over the course of our work together, I came to understand not just the physical demands of breaking at such a high level, but the mental and emotional strength required to perform at such at that level. Sunny was more than just an athlete to me—she became a friend, a source of inspiration, and a reminder of why I became a massage therapist in the first place: to help people perform at their best and to support them through their journeys.

Each massage therapy session was more than just a physical recovery process—it was a moment of connection. We’d talk about her goals, her struggles, and the obstacles she faced as a female athlete breaking through barriers. I felt honored to play a role in her journey, helping her recover and perform at her absolute best.

Reflecting on a Journey of Growth and Triumph

Looking back on this incredible journey, I am filled with gratitude. The Paris 2024 Olympics were a culmination of everything Sunny had worked for, and in many ways, it was a celebration of both of our journeys—mine as a breakdancer and massage therapist, and hers as a pioneering athlete.

In the end, it wasn’t just about the Olympic Games; it was about the bond we forged through hard work, trust, and mutual respect. It was about the countless hours spent on recovery, the moments of triumph, and the journey we took together, both as professionals and as individuals passionate about breaking. To see Sunny compete on the world stage was a dream come true for me—and to know that I had a small part in her success was a truly humbling experience.

The road we traveled together was one of growth, healing, and relentless dedication. It was a reminder that behind every athlete’s success is a team that supports them—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. And as Sunny dances her way into Olympic history, I will always be proud to say I was there with her every step of the way.