The role of digital sport and technology on athlete perceptions and motivations: A comparison between branches

The digitalization and technological advancements in sports have led to significant transformations in athletes' perceptions and motivations. The aim of this study is to examine whether motivation for digital sports games, attitudes toward e-sports, tactical skills in sports, and perceptions of wearable sports technologies differ according to demographic characteristics (gender, age, marital status, and sport branch). A total of 230 active athletes from football (n=71), athletics (n=58), boxing (n=54), and volleyball (n=47) in Esenyurt, Istanbul, participated in the study. Data were collected using the Digital Sports Games Motivation Scale (DSGMS), E-Sports Attitude Scale (ESAS), Tactical Skills Inventory for Sports (TSIS), and Wearable Sports Technology Perception Scale (WSTPS). The normality of the data was confirmed, and analyses were conducted using one-way ANOVA and Pearson correlation tests. In conclusion, the results indicate that demographic factors such as gender, age, marital status, and sport branch exert only limited and contextual effects on athletes' digital sports motivation, e-sports attitudes, tactical skills, and technology perceptions. These variables appear to be shaped more by individual interests, gaming experience, technological adaptation, and social environment rather than demographics alone. Therefore, it can be concluded that a multidimensional approach is needed to better understand athletes' motivation and perceptions toward digital sports, e-sports, and wearable technologies. Keywords: E-Sports, Wearable Technology, Motivation