The Evolution of Sports Education Research: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis of High-Impact Publications (2000–2025)

This study employs a bibliometric and content analysis approach to examine the evolution of 500 high-impact sports education publications from 2000 to 2025. Using CiteSpace and Biblioshiny, we extract data from leading academic databases, analyzing publication trends, citation networks, and emerging themes in the field. Key findings indicate a shift from traditional coaching methodologies to technology-enhanced learning models, emphasizing blended learning, virtual reality, and neuroscience-driven sports training. Furthermore, the study highlights geographical research disparities, with Western countries dominating AI-based sports education research while developing regions remain underrepresented. This paper outlines potential directions for inclusive and globally relevant sports education studies.