A new study from the University of Stirling has brought to light the psychological pressures professional esports players go through, after hours of interviewing South Korean esports athletes who competed at the Asian Games.
The 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou changed professional gaming, as it is where esports originally became a full medal sport. It included seven medal events, 475 athletes competing, and 30 nations represented.
Lots of excitement is also brewing over anticipation of the Olympic Esports Games being organised by the International Olympic Committee. With the Asian Games helping to get esports to this point.
The University of Stirling are among the first in the world to delve into the personal experiences of these ten South Korean professional esports athletes who competed in the games. This involved a thorough interviewing process of around ten hours with the athletes. It covered the qualification process before the competition, the main competition itself, and the aftermath.
Players described competing for their country as a career-defining offer, however several recounted emotional distress after the Asian Games due to extreme pressure. These findings come as esports is returning to the 2026 Asian Games in Japan during September and October.
Dr Hee Jung Hong, Associate Professor in Sport at the University of Stirling, and lead author of the study, said: “Esports is entering a defining period in its history. As it becomes increasingly recognised within the international sporting system, players are no longer simply competing for themselves or their teams – they are representing their countries on one of the world’s biggest sporting stages.
“Our research shows that while this brings enormous pride and recognition, it also creates significant psychological demands.
“If esports is to continue its rapid growth as an international sport, governance, player welfare and mental health support must evolve alongside it.”
The athletes described the major changes in competitive gaming during the Asian Games. This included anti-doping regulations, residential training camps, enhanced athlete support services and greater public scrutiny.
Players praised the event’s care and support throughout the competition; however, findings highlight the lasting emotional impact on players’ mental well-being once returning home. This suggested that more support and guidance should be accessible to players after competitions.
The Korea Esports Association (KeSPA), South Korea’s national governing body for esports, was applauded by the players for their handling of recruitment and is seen as an example of what these events need in the future. The athletes believe this is an excellent example of what other organisations should put into practice.
The study calls for more care towards the competing athletes, durable career pathways, clearer rules and regulations as well as effective leadership.
Co-author of the study, Dr Sungkyung Kim, Lecturer in Sport Management at the University of Stirling, said: “The study offers practical evidence for governments, policymakers, governing bodies and event organisers seeking to build a sustainable and athlete-centred future for esports.
“As esports becomes an increasingly prominent part of the global sporting landscape, the study provides timely evidence to help shape policies that protect player wellbeing while supporting the continued professionalisation of the industry.”
Featured image credits: The University of Stirling
