Effect of match time on the characteristics of beach volleyball matches at the Tokyo Olympics

The influence of time of day on athletic performance is often analyzed within controlled environments. Investigating the impact of match timing on performance provides valuable insights into physiological demands, which fluctuate based on sport, mental factors, and environmental conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of game times on the technical-tactical performance of beach volleyball during the Tokyo Olympics. This research was an observational study that analyzed data from scouts of the 108 competition matches. The extracted information included dates, times, results, weather conditions, and efficacy of game actions. Descriptive statistical analysis and a comparison of means were conducted with the Linear Mixed Model (LMM). The findings revealed statistically significant variations in athletes' serving performance variables across different times of the day. Specifically, the direct serving points (Ace) and serving efficiency reached a higher quantity in the morning (p < 0.05). Conversely, performance associated with physical power, such as serve speed, reached a higher average in the afternoon (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that beach volleyball athletic performance can be optimized by considering the athletes' biological rhythms, which influence team actions and strategies, particularly regarding the serve components of performance.