Rebecca Kone: Mali's Phygital Dance sensation aiming for Games of the Future 2026

For more than six years, Rebecca Kone has been dominating dance-based esports in Mali, consistently finishing among the country's very best. Now, she's taken the leap onto the international stage, qualifying for Phygital Contenders Astana 2026 with a shot at the Games of the Future 2026 in her sights.

Phygital dancing isn't like anything else. It demands technical gaming precision and explosive stage performance at the same time – under pressure and in front of a live crowd. Rebecca has mastered both, and she's only getting started.

But her story goes beyond the scores. Growing up in an environment where video games and dance weren't always taken seriously, Rebecca pushed through the doubt – and is now proof that passion and self-belief can take you all the way to the world stage.

In this interview, she talks about the nerves and excitement of going international, how she prepares mentally for competition, and the message she has for every young girl who's ever been told gaming or dance isn't for them.

This is what the future of sport looks like. Hit play to hear more about her inspiring journey.