Sport has seen a remarkable development in recent decades, thanks to technological advances, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been among the most influential tools in improving sports performance.

Through data analysis and predictions, AI has revolutionised various areas of sports, including training, nutrition, performance analysis, injury prediction, and competitor analysis.

AI plays a pivotal role in improving sports training programmes, developing individual and group programmes for players, using machine learning techniques to analyse athletes' data and deliver personalised training plans based on their past performance, physical abilities, and future goals.

Many clubs in the UAE and around the world are using AI to select the right training programmes, as it can analyse athletes' physical performance and health data to create individual and group training plans.

There is also real-time performance monitoring, where sensors, tools such as smartwatches and motion trackers are used to provide athletes with real-time data on performance during training.

This data helps coaches to tailor training programmes to each player's condition and situation.

AI-powered VR technologies are used to simulate real-life in-game situations, giving players the opportunity to optimise their reflexes and strategies.

G42, an Abu Dhabi-based technology innovation and artificial intelligence (AI) company, released a report highlighting the role of AI in reshaping the sports industry, titled ‘The Future of Sports and AI’ on the sidelines of the recent GITEX 2024 exhibition recently.

Peng Xiao, CEO of G42, said, “This report is a glimpse into how AI will revolutionise how we play and watch sports. At G42, we believe that the future of sport will be defined by the seamless integration of AI, enhancing not only athletic performance but also the way we engage with the global sports community. By harnessing the power of AI, we are enabling athletes, coaches, and fans to experience sports in ways never thought possible, pushing the boundaries of human potential.”

According to the report, AI is set to become an indispensable tool at all levels of sport.

Dr. Ahmad Saad Alsharif, Chairman of the Association for Sports, said that sport is no longer a purely physical endeavour, but has become a field of integration between modern technology and the human mind, thanks to artificial intelligence.

Sebastian Lancestremere, Director of Sports and Strategic Partnerships at Microsoft, said that AI applications are increasing the efficiency of sectors such as the construction and utilisation of facilities and gymnasiums, and the television broadcasting industry.