AI and the Evolution of Journal Impact in Sports Management

Abstract

This narrative review explores the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping the evolution of journal impact within the field of sports management. AI has become a critical tool in academic publishing, influencing citation metrics, content curation, and peer review processes. Key metrics such as impact factor, h-index, and citation counts have been significantly impacted by AI-driven tools, which enhance the visibility, accessibility, and interdisciplinary reach of sports management journals. Journals that have adopted AI technologies, such as Sport Management Review and Journal of Sport Management, have experienced accelerated citation growth and improved rankings. This review also highlights how AI enhances research quality by automating literature reviews, data analysis, and predictive modeling, while improving reproducibility and credibility. However, challenges such as biases in AI algorithms, ethical concerns, and the potential overreliance on AI for research evaluation must be addressed to ensure that AI complements rather than replaces human expertise in academic publishing. The review concludes by suggesting future research directions, including the need for ethical AI development, improved transparency, and the exploration of AI’s long-term impact on academic publishing in sports management. Ultimately, AI offers vast potential to drive innovation, elevate research quality, and shape the future of sports management scholarship.