Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part B (2024)

This paper offers a comprehensive review of sports-related competitive anxiety and its profound implications for athletes' performance and well-being. It synthesizes current research across various contexts including practice, competition, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and return to sport, drawing from two comprehensive studies that provide both theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence. Competitive anxiety is explored as a pervasive psychological phenomenon in sports, impacting athletes at different competition levels through cognitive and somatic manifestations. Theoretical models such as the inverted-U hypothesis, drive theory, and multidimensional anxiety theory are examined to deepen our understanding of how anxiety influences performance. These models elucidate the nuanced relationship where anxiety can either hinder or enhance performance depending on individual and situational factors. Empirical findings underscore the dual nature of competitive anxiety, highlighting its potential to both impede and motivate athletes. The review discusses its effects on injury occurrence, rehabilitation processes, and return to sport outcomes, emphasizing the significance of tailored psychological interventions. Strategies such as goal setting, imagery, relaxation techniques, and cognitive restructuring are identified as crucial tools to mitigate anxiety's adverse effects and optimize athletic performance and recovery. Practical implications stress the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration involving sports psychologists, coaches, and healthcare professionals to support athletes effectively. Future research directions are proposed to explore personalized interventions and holistic approaches that enhance athlete care and refine performance management strategies. In summary, this review consolidates current knowledge on sports-related competitive anxiety, offering insights into its theoretical underpinnings, empirical findings, and practical applications. By addressing these dimensions comprehensively, the paper aims to improve athlete outcomes and promote their overall well-being in competitive sports environments.