Sign in Subscribe
Soccer players

Study Finds Competitive Anxiety Linked to Increased Risk of Sports Injury in Youth Soccer Players

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Research conducted at the University of Murcia in Spain has identified a significant association between competitive anxiety and the risk of sports injury in young male soccer players. The study, which analyzed data from 322 male soccer players aged 10 to 15, found that higher levels of somatic anxiety, worry, and reduced distraction were linked to increased injury risk. The findings suggest that preventive psychological interventions and ongoing monitoring are crucial to reduce anxiety levels and promote safer athletic development.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that competitive anxiety, particularly worry and distraction, is a significant risk factor for injury in youth soccer players.
  • A total of 322 male soccer players from youth categories (Alevin, Infantil, and Cadete) participated in the study.
  • The study observed a high incidence of injuries, increasing progressively with age category.
  • In the overall sample, injuries were associated with higher levels of somatic anxiety, as well as with age and sporting experience.
  • The study found that injuries were positively related to somatic anxiety and distraction among Cadete players.
  • The research concluded that the implementation of preventive psychological interventions and ongoing monitoring is recommended to reduce anxiety levels and injury vulnerability.

Statistics:

  • A total of 322 male soccer players participated in the study.
  • The study observed a high incidence of injuries, with 1094 reported injuries among the participants.
  • Injuries increased progressively with age category, with 44.7% of injuries reported among Cadete players.
  • The study found that higher levels of somatic anxiety (15.6%), worry (14.5%), and reduced distraction (11.4%) were linked to increased injury risk.

Sources:

  • "Competitive Anxiety, Sports Injury, and Playing Category in Youth Soccer Players" by Rafael Sanchez-Ruiz et al. published in Children, 2025(12):1094 (http://www.mdpi.com/journal/children).
  • Health & Medicine Week, September 12, 2025, p 7164 (NewsRx).

Read more