Distinct Visual Processing Patterns in Female Elite Athletes: A Comparative Study of Gymnastics, Soccer, and Esports Using Visual P300 Event-Related Potentials

Abstract

Visual processing is crucial for sports performance, influencing athletes' ability to interpret and respond to visual stimuli. This study investigated distinct visual processing patterns among Thai elite athletes in gymnastics, soccer, and esports, utilizing visual P300 event-related potentials (P300 ERPs). Forty-two female athletes (14 gymnasts, 14 soccer players, and 14 esports athletes) participated. Visual P300 ERP responses were stimulated using the visual oddball paradigm. One-way ANOVA was employed to assess significant differences among the groups in P300 ERPs data, including amplitude and latency of waveforms, response time, and accuracy rate. Significant differences were found across the groups in various parameters. Esports athletes exhibited longer P300 ERP latencies at the frontal electrode sites compared to gymnasts (p = 0.01), suggesting slower visual processing in the frontal brain regions. Gymnasts demonstrated the fastest response times, significantly quicker than esports and soccer players (p < 0.01). In contrast, soccer players exhibited the highest accuracy rate (p = 0.03). These findings underscore athletes' diverse visual processing strategies in different sports contexts, reflecting sport-specific adaptations. Understanding these distinct visual processing patterns can guide targeted interventions aimed at improving cognitive abilities and decision-making processes among elite athletes, ultimately contributing to better overall performance.