Talent development in tennis: A qualitative study of emerging regions.

Abstract

Talent identification and development are fundamental processes for cultivating high-performance athletes in sport. However, these processes remain insufficiently understood in regions such as the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, Pacific Oceania, and Asia. These areas often face challenges including limited infrastructure, resource constraints, and sociocultural barriers, which complicate the identification and nurturing of emerging talent. This study employs a qualitative approach, drawing on insights from semi-structured interviews with a sample composed of the ten development officers from the International Tennis Federation (ITF) who are based in these regions. Reflective thematic analysis was used to identify four key factors: structures and systems, economic challenges, access, and support influencing the effectiveness of developmental systems. By examining the nuanced interactions between these factors, the study identifies key obstacles and facilitators within these regions. The findings offer practical recommendations to improve talent pathways and ensure a more equitable distribution of opportunities. This work contributes to ongoing discussions in sports science, emphasising the need for inclusive and context-sensitive approaches to athlete development in underrepresented areas of the global tennis landscape.