Institutionalising esports: professional players and national representation at the 2022 Asian Games

Abstract

This exploratory study aims to explore the unique experiences of esports players who participated and competed at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, which represented a historical milestone by officially including esports in a medal event. This significant step reflects the increased recognition of esports as a legitimate and influential part of international sport culture. A qualitative approach was applied to gain in-depth insights into esports players’ lived experiences of competing at the 2022 Asian Games. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 esports players who represented South Korea as part of the national squad and reflexive thematic analysis was employed to analyse the qualitative data. Following the analytical process, there were six themes were identified: (a) pathways to professional esports careers, (b) honourable opportunities with high demands and challenges, (c) another level of psychological pressure at the Asian Games, (d) available support for the psychological battle, (e) pride and regret as sources of motivation and (f) post-Asian Games trauma. Applying the framework of institutional work, the findings show how the inclusion of the esports in the Asian Games reflects intertwined processes of institutional creation, maintenance and institutional change, which offers insights into how merging professions gain legitimacy and organisational form. The findings highlight how national representation reshapes professional identity, intensifies performance pressures and centres the institutionalisation of psychological and physical health support. Importantly, they emphasise the need for sustained support structures beyond event-based participation, with implications for the professionalisation and governance of new professional fields.