Managing emotions in competitive sports: Integrated models of psychological flexibility

Abstract High-performance sport has evolved into an arena where psychological excellence is as decisive as physical prowess. The ability to effectively regulate emotions, particularly pre-competitive anxiety/negativity (PCA), consistently distinguishes elite performance. This article presents a critical and in-depth analysis of the contemporary literature on emotional management in sport. Beginning with a deconstruction of the athlete’s complex emotional landscape, it delves into the neurocognitive mechanisms and multifactorial antecedents of these states, identifying them as a central obstacle to optimal performance. The core of the work focuses on evaluating a spectrum of evidence-based psychological interventions, ranging from physiological regulation strategies and pre-competitive routines to third-wave approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness training. The analysis reveals a paradigm shift from models aimed at eliminating anxiety/negativity to approaches that promote psychological flexibility and acceptance. It is concluded that the most effective intervention resides in an integrated, periodized, and personalized model-a “toolbox” of psychological skills-adapted to the athlete’s individual needs and the phases of their training cycle. This work argues that the future of sport psychology lies in promoting the athlete’s holistic well-being as the fundamental pillar for sustainable, high-level performance.