What is a core requirement of informed consent in ethical research involving athletes?

• A. Consent must be informed and voluntary
• B. Consent can be verbal only
• C. Consent not needed for public athletes
• D. Consent is optional

Answer: (A)

In research ethics, respecting an athlete’s autonomy means participation must be a free, informed choice. Informed means the researcher clearly explains what the study involves, including its purpose, procedures, potential risks and benefits, how data will be used and kept confidential, and the participant’s right to withdraw at any time. Voluntary means the decision to participate isn’t coerced or unduly influenced by coaches, team pressures, financial incentives, or concerns about playing time. Athletes should be able to say yes or no without any penalty or repercussion, and they should have time to consider their decision and demonstrate understanding. For younger or more vulnerable participants, additional protections like parental consent and assent may apply, but the essential requirement remains that consent is both informed and voluntary. Verbal consent alone may not ensure adequate information or reliable documentation, and assuming consent isn’t needed for public athletes or that it’s optional contradicts the fundamental respect for autonomy and protection from coercion.