Keywords
sports
bibliometrics
Scoping Review
Scientopy
How to Cite
Abstract
Virtual reality (VR) in sports has gained increasing attention in recent scientific literature.
However, the combined use of bibliometric analysis and scoping review to explore this topic remains limited. This study aims to: (i) identify global publication trends, key contributors, and leading countries in the application of VR in sports between 2015 and 2024; (ii) examine the types of sports in which VR technologies are implemented; and (iii) explore future research perspectives to advance the integration of VR in sport science and practice. Using data from two major databases, Scopus and Web of Science, this study employs a dual-method approach that combines bibliometric analysis with a scoping review. The results show a clear upward trend in scholarly output, driven by contributions from influential researchers and a growing interest across countries and disciplines. VR has been widely applied in both team and individual sports, particularly for enhancing motor learning, supporting cognitive training, and facilitating physical rehabilitation. Despite this progress, there remain notable gaps in longitudinal research, studies on high-precision sports, and the integration of neurocognitive assessments. Future investigations should adopt more advanced methodologies, address current technological limitations, and expand geographic diversity in research. Overall, this study offers valuable insights and a comprehensive roadmap to guide futureinnovations in immersive sport technologies.
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