Global sports teams’ success stories using mindfulness

With the growing research on mindfulness, a variety of professional sports teams globally have implemented mindfulness programs into their training to enhance the mental well-being and performance of their athletes. In the NBA, the Golden State Warriors, led by coach Steve Kerr, have integrated these practices into their training regimen, while the legendary Kobe Bryant also embraced mindfulness during his career (Mumford, George 2015). Kobe described his daily mindfulness similar to “having an anchor” that allowed him to “be controlled and dictate the day.” In the NFL, quarterback Russell Wilson for the Denver Broncos has openly discussed how mindfulness techniques have improved his focus and mental resilience (Manikam et al., 2021). Tennis star Novak Djokovic attributes his composure and on-court performance to mindfulness and meditation. Even in Major League Baseball, the Chicago Cubs introduced mindfulness and meditation sessions during their 2016 World Series-winning season. In Major League Soccer, the Seattle Sounders FC have adopted mindfulness and meditation into their training program. Beyond team sports, numerous Olympic athletes, including Michael Phelps in swimming and Simone Biles in gymnastics, have harnessed the power of mindfulness and mental training to elevate their performance on the world stage. These elite players and teams have recognized the impact mindfulness can have on their resilience and performance and serve as models for our youth athletes to follow to strengthen their mental game.