Bibliometric Analysis of Publications by the Terms «Wrestling» and «Freestyle Wrestling» in the Scopus Database

Abstract

In the context of research into managing wrestlers' pre-competition states at the stage of specialized basic training, it is important to study scientific activity in the field of wrestling based on a bibliometric analysis of publications using the terms «Wrestling» and «Freestyle Wrestling» in the Scopus database. Purpose. This article is dedicated to the analysis of scientific activity related to the topics of «Wrestling» and «Freestyle Wrestling» in the Scopus database during 2015–2024. The aim of the study is to identify the dynamics of quantitative and structural characteristics of publications, determine the main document types, and outline the priority academic fields in which wrestling-related research is conducted. Methods. The study employed methods of bibliometric analysis and comparative statistics. It examined the dynamics of publication volume changes by year, document type, and subject area. Comparative analysis of absolute and relative indicators of publication growth or decline was carried out for each year based on the two key terms. Results. The term «Wrestling» yielded a total of 5538 publications over the study period, while «Freestyle Wrestling» resulted in 209 publications. An uneven but overall positive trend in publication growth was observed, with the highest increase recorded in 2020. Publications under the term «Wrestling» demonstrated a wide range of document types, with journal articles dominating, but also including book chapters, reviews, conference papers, and monographs. In contrast, «Freestyle Wrestling» was characterized predominantly by journal articles, indicating a limited variety of academic communication formats. The disciplinary distribution revealed that wrestling is most commonly studied within medicine, social sciences, and health professions. In the case of «Wrestling», notable representation was also found in the humanities, psychology, biology, and engineering, pointing to the interdisciplinary nature of this research field. «Freestyle Wrestling» showed a stronger concentration in applied areas, particularly in sports and human health. Conclusions. The topic of wrestling in general demonstrates sustained interest within the scientific community, as evidenced by the growing number of publications and their expanding disciplinary reach. At the same time, Freestyle Wrestling remains a narrowly specialized topic with a predominantly practice-oriented focus. The findings may be useful for shaping research policy in physical education, sports, and health, as well as for supporting future interdisciplinary studies in the field of sports science.