Relationship between mental toughness and the competitive aniexty among the sports person

The present study examines the relationship between mental toughness and competitive anxiety among sportspersons. In competitive sports, athletes often experience psychological pressure, making these factors important for understanding performance. A quantitative correlational research design was adopted, and data were collected from 100 athletes using the Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ) and the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2). The findings revealed that participants showed moderate levels of both mental toughness and competitive anxiety. Pearson’s correlation analysis indicated a weak and non-significant relationship between mental toughness and competitive anxiety. Similarly, the components of mental toughness—confidence, constancy, and control—also showed no significant relationship with competitive anxiety. The results suggest that mental toughness alone may not significantly influence competitive anxiety. It highlights that anxiety in sports is influenced by multiple psychological and situational factors. The study emphasizes the need for a broader approach that includes both mental toughness development and effective anxiety management strategies to enhance performance and well-being.