Psychology of Sport Performance: Contemporary Research and Application

Dear Colleagues,

Psychological factors play a central role in determining sport performance, influencing how athletes regulate thoughts, emotions, motivation, and behaviour in demanding competitive environments. Over the past three decades, research in sport psychology has expanded rapidly, generating important insights into psychological skills training, emotional regulation, self-regulation, motivation, resilience, and mental health in sport. At the same time, there is increasing recognition that translating psychological theory into effective applied practice remains a key challenge.

This Special Issue aims to bring together contemporary research examining the psychological processes underpinning sport performance and the application of psychological interventions within sport settings. We welcome empirical studies, systematic reviews, theoretical papers, and applied case studies that advance understanding of psychological mechanisms influencing performance and wellbeing in athletes.

Topics may include, but are not limited to: psychological skills training, emotion and mood regulation, motivation, self-regulation, mental fatigue, resilience, coaching psychology, performance under pressure, athlete mental health, and the effectiveness of psychological interventions.

By integrating research and applied perspectives, this Special Issue aims to provide researchers, practitioners, and coaches with evidence-based insights to enhance both performance and athlete wellbeing.

Prof. Dr. Andrew M. Lane
Prof. Dr. Maurizio Bertollo
Prof. Dr. Tracey Devonport
Guest Editors

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