BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY IN SPORTS: ENHANCING ATHLETE MENTAL AND COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE TRACKING

Blockchain technology, initially developed for cryptocurrencies, has evolved into a versatile tool with applications across industries, including healthcare, finance, and now sports. This study investigates the role of blockchain in enhancing athlete performance tracking by integrating physical and cognitive metrics. Traditional methods often lack objectivity and security, while blockchain offers decentralised, tamper-proof, and real-time data tracking, addressing these challenges. The primary goal of this article is to explore how blockchain technology can enhance the tracking of athletes' mental and physical performance. The article aims to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the integration of blockchain in sports, focusing on its potential to address current challenges in performance monitoring, improve data security and integrity, and enable more effective and personalized training and competition strategies. A systematic review of literature was conducted to examine blockchain’s applications in sports. The analysis focused on its capabilities for performance tracking, data security, and integration with wearable technology. Metrics like strength, endurance, attention, decision-making, and cognitive fatigue were evaluated through blockchain-enabled systems. Blockchain enhances both physical and cognitive performance tracking by providing secure, real-time, and tamper-proof data. It facilitates personalised training programs by integrating metrics such as agility, focus, and decision-making. Wearable technology combined with blockchain enables continuous monitoring while safeguarding athlete privacy. The technology also ensures transparent record-keeping, useful for talent scouting and dispute resolution. Blockchain technology revolutionises athlete performance management by addressing traditional monitoring challenges. It offers a holistic approach to integrating physical and cognitive metrics, ensuring data security and enabling predictive insights for training and competition. However, issues like scalability, adoption resistance, and regulatory barriers need resolution for widespread implementation. Future studies should focus on the long-term impacts of blockchain on athlete development, scalability in sports organisations, and integration with emerging technologies like AI and IoT. Addressing regulatory and ethical challenges will be crucial for its adoption in the global sports industry.