Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part F (2025)

In competitive sports, success relies not only on physical ability and training but also on mental and emotional factors, including sports anxiety. This anxiety, characterized by fear of failure and performance pressure, can severely hinder an athlete's focus and performance. Symptoms may include elevated heart rates and negative thoughts, which, when extreme, diminish motor coordination. If unchecked, sports anxiety can lead to a debilitating cycle of underperformance and loss of self-confidence, adversely affecting overall well-being. However, recognizing and effectively managing anxiety can transform it into a motivational tool, enabling athletes to reach their fullest potential, as managing fear distinguishes exceptional from average athletes.