Faster, more accurate? A feasibility study on replacing human judges with artificial intelligence in video review for the Paris Olympics Taekwondo competition

  • Yuncheng ZHANG*
  • , Ruojie QU
  • , Olivier GIRARD
  • *Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Journal PublicationsJournal Article (refereed)peer-review

Abstract

Introduction: This study explores the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of video review systems in Taekwondo, addressing limitations in current human-based judgment processes during competitions. 

Methods: A total of 241 video review cases from the 2024 Paris Olympic Taekwondo competition were analyzed. AI-based judgments were generated using ChatGPT-4.5 and OpenPose deep learning models. The AI-generated penalty decisions were statistically compared to those made by international video review referees using Cohen's Kappa coefficient. 

Results: The AI system demonstrated strong agreement with international referees (κ = 0.897, p < 0.001). Discrepancies occurred in only 9 out of 241 cases, primarily in scenarios involving head strikes with minimal contact or visual occlusion. Additionally, the AI system reduced average review time by approximately 81% by automatically identifying critical frames. Discussion: While AI significantly improved efficiency and showed high consistency with expert judgments, human oversight remains crucial for ambiguous or complex cases. A hybrid model—AI-assisted pre-review followed by referee confirmation—is proposed to optimize decision-making. Future developments should focus on real-time detection, multi-angle video integration, and application to other sports such as baseball, basketball, boxing, and judo.

Original languageEnglish
Article number1632326
Number of pages14
JournalFrontiers in Sports and Active Living
Volume7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 18 Aug 2025
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
2025 Zhang, Qu and Girard.

Funding

The author(s) declare that no financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article.

Keywords

  • artificial intelligence
  • Paris Olympics
  • sports fairness
  • sports referee
  • Taekwondo

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