Purpose: This study aimed to analyze expert viewpoints and develop a multidimensional framework for factors influencing talent identification in table tennis. Given the multidimensional role of physiological and perceptual–motor indicators in athletic success, examining how experts prioritize these factors can contribute to designing a more accurate talent identification system.
Methods: This exploratory study was conducted using Q-methodology. Based on previous literature and expert opinion, 25 talent identification indicators were extracted and presented to 22 table tennis specialists, who ranked them on a Q-sort distribution from +4 to -4. Data were analyzed using KADE software based on retained variance and consensus statements. The study protocol was registered in the OSF platform under the ID hz2fr-v1, and approval was obtained from the Physical Education Department of Farhangian University, Khorasan Razavi Province.
Findings: Six distinct assessment profiles were extracted. The skill-related physical fitness profile, explaining 39% of the retained variance, represented the dominant expert viewpoint and emphasized hand–eye coordination, dominant-hand strength, speed, and agility. In contrast, the multidimensional approach was the least common viewpoint. Hand–eye coordination and agility were identified as positive consensus indicators, whereas height was identified as a negative consensus indicator.
Conclusion: Despite the diversity of expert viewpoints, skill-related physical fitness was the dominant talent identification pattern in table tennis. Hand–eye coordination and agility form the core of initial screening, whereas height is not an appropriate criterion. Therefore, talent identification protocols should begin with this shared core and physical–skill indicators, followed by psychological assessments in later stages.