The impact of anxiety on competitive performance among female soccer players

Abstract

Background: Anxiety is a multidimensional concept that considerably influences athletic performance in sport. Compared to male athletes, female soccer players often report higher levels of anxiety and face unique challenges and stressors that may contribute to these elevated levels. Although this has been reported, research specifically focusing on female university players in South Africa remains limited. This study examined the level of anxiety among female university soccer players and its impact on their competitive performance. Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional design was used, involving 34 female soccer players (Mage = 24.85, SD ± 3.79), primarily Black (Black = 91%; Colored = 9%), competing at university and national levels. Participants completed 2 questionnaires: the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2) and the Sport Anxiety Scale (SAS), which assessed dimensions of anxiety and self-confidence. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including paired-sample t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis. Results: Participants reported moderate levels of cognitive anxiety (M = 2.61), somatic anxiety (M = 2.30), and self-confidence (M = 2.49). No significant differences in anxiety were found across playing positions (p > 0.05). However, a significant difference in state anxiety during gameplay was observed based on years of experience (p = 0.013). Regression models revealed that state anxiety was a strong predictor of performance R2 = 0.686, p < 0.001), with pre-game and mid-game anxiety acting as significant positive predictors (beta = 0.46 and beta = 0.55, respectively). In contrast, post-game anxiety was a negative predictor of performance (beta = −0.31, p = 0.028). Conclusion: This study highlights that anxiety can be facilitative and can enhance performance before and during competition. However, the negative impact of post-game anxiety indicates a critical need for psychological recovery interventions. This research addresses an important gap in the literature by contributing to the understanding of how anxiety affects the performance of female athletes and by recommending actionable interventions to improve their performance.