Navigating objectivity and subjectivity in athletic talent identification and evaluation

The identification and evaluation of talent in sport remains a critical concern within sport science, psychology, and performance management. At the heart of this field lies the complex interplay between objective measurement and subjective judgment. Despite advancements in technology, analytics, and psychometric tools, persistent challenges cloud the accuracy and fairness of talent identification systems. Ongoing debates surround the validity of performance metrics, the predictive value of assessment batteries, and the implications of entrenched biases—both conscious and unconscious—in evaluative processes. Recent studies reveal that while experienced coaches and scouts possess refined pattern recognition skills grounded in expertise, these same experts are not impervious to cognitive distortions or sociocultural preconceptions. Efforts to enhance decision-making through evidence-based models have illuminated the value and shortcomings of both quantitative and qualitative approaches, highlighting the necessity for better integration of data and instinctual knowledge. While multidisciplinary perspectives have widened understanding, there remains a pressing need for research that bridges the gap between competing forms of evidence and addresses the limitations of current practices in real-world sporting contexts.This Research Topic aims to forge a nuanced understanding of how objective and subjective evidence—along with their accompanying biases—influence the processes underpinning talent identification, selection, and development in sport. The central objective is to examine how data-driven tools and human expertise can effectively complement one another, resulting in more robust and equitable evaluation frameworks. Key questions include: What are the mechanisms by which bias infiltrates evaluative processes? How might integrative models increase predictive accuracy and minimize errors in selection? In what ways can evidence-based approaches be designed to enhance, rather than constrain, human judgment? By interrogating these questions, this Research Topic also seeks to generate actionable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and organizations invested in optimizing talent pathways and promoting inclusive sporting cultures.The scope of this Research Topic encompasses empirical, conceptual, and theoretical contributions focused on the intersection of objectivity, subjectivity, evidence, and bias in talent identification across sporting contexts. Submissions may address diverse sampling frames and methodological approaches but should remain anchored in the goal of improving athlete assessment and development systems. To gather further insights in this area, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Validity, reliability, and predictive value of talent identification and selection methods• Cognitive and socio-cultural biases in talent evaluation and decision-making• The development and implementation of integrative assessment models combining objective data and subjective judgment• Theoretical frameworks unpacking the nature, definition, and measurement of “talent”• Policy and system-level implications for designing inclusive and effective talent pathways• Practical applications for coaching, athlete development, and talent (de)selection• Coach education / decision-making training to mitigate bias and improve selection quality Topic editors: James H Dugdale, Paul Larkin, Kathryn Johnston, Alliance Kubayi, Till Koopmann Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78514/navigating-objectivity-and-subjectivity-in-athletic-talent-identification-and-evaluation