PURPOSE Players’ nonverbal behavior during a game may be expressed through selfregulatory and intentional processes, where nonverbal cues are strategically used to achieve specific outcomes. This study aimed to observe and explore the strategic and intentional nonverbal behaviors utilized by table tennis players. METHODS The study utilized a grounded theory methodology and involved purposeful sampling of ten adult table tennis players. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted. The collected data were analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding techniques. RESULTS The findings revealed that players’ intentional nonverbal behaviors are influenced by their confidence levels, physical condition, and perceptions of others’ nonverbal cues. Throughout this process, players underwent various emotional experiences, worked to maintain a positive mental state, and experienced changes in both their behaviors and psychological states, which impacted the flow of the game. CONCLUSIONS This study’s results provide valuable insights into the role of intentional nonverbal behaviors utilized by athletes during competitions. This suggests that understanding and incorporating intentional nonverbal behavior should be a key consideration in sports psychology counseling and psychological skills training.
