Burnout in elite junior tennis players: A multiple case study

Abstract

This cross-sectional, descriptive study aimed to identify the prevalence and risk of burnout in Brazilian elite young tennis players, using a multiple-case approach. A total of 130 participants were recruited using a random, non-probabilistic method, based on participation in 2 international tournaments. The Athlete Burnout Questionnaire (ABQ) was used to measure burnout in the players. The results showed that 10% of the athletes (n = 13) had a moderate risk of burnout, 3.1% had a high risk, and 2.3% showed signs of burnout. Analysis of the categories of players with a high risk of burnout and those with signs of burnout showed that there were ve categories: recurrent burnout, burnout in career transition, changes in burnout level, burnout related to high expectations, and burnout related to overtraining. The findings of the study reinforce recent models showing that athlete burnout is a complex phenomenon that can manifest in different ways, depending on the athlete’s characteristics and life experiences in the sport.