Background and Objective: Match analysis plays a vital role in forming the scientific foundation of training and guiding strategic decision-making in wrestling. By objectively evaluating athletes’ technical and tactical performances, coaches and athletes can optimize preparation and in-match strategies. This study aimed to analyze the technical and tactical characteristics of medal matches in Greco-Roman (GR), Freestyle (FS), and Women’s Wrestling (WW) at the 2024 European Wrestling Championships. Methods: A total of 54 elite-level matches (18 from each style), held in Bucharest between 12 and 18 February, 2024, were retrospectively analyzed. Three expert observers evaluated the matches using video footage from the United World Wrestling (UWW) archive. Descriptive statistics were performed using SPSS 25.0. Results: Across 301 recorded actions, 2-point techniques (52.16%) and 1-point techniques (43.85%) were dominant; only 3.99% were 4-point actions. GR primarily utilized body lock and gut wrench; FS favored single-leg attacks and leg lace. In WW, the scores were obtained from techniques applied in the par terre position with a high frequency (60.8%). Most victories in all styles occurred by points rather than technical superiority or falls. Conclusion: The findings reveal a strategic preference for low-risk, controlled techniques in high-level matches. These insights can inform evidence-based training and match preparation for future championships.

The present study examines the effect of the Dark Triad personality traits (i.e. Machiavellianism, narcissism and psychopathy) on athletes' luxury consumption intentions, focusing particularly on the mediating role of the desire to be liked. The research draws on conspicuous consumption theory to explore how socially undesirable personality traits drive individuals to seek prestige and social approval through luxury consumption. A total of 358 active athletes in Turkey were the subjects of the study, which was conducted using purposive sampling. The data were analysed using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) approach. The findings indicate that narcissism and psychopathy exert a substantial influence on luxury consumption, operating through the desire to be liked. In contrast, Machiavellianism does not demonstrate a significant indirect effect. The results of this study demonstrate the unique psychological mechanisms through which each trait of the Dark Triad influences consumer behaviour. The present study contributes to the existing literature by offering a novel perspective on the intersection of personality psychology, sports, and luxury consumption. Furthermore, it provides practical implications for marketers, brand managers, and sports psychologists. This study reveals that athletes’ luxury consumption is driven not only by personal gratification but also by the pursuit of social approval and visibility. These findings offer practical insights for marketing professionals, sports managers, and psychologists to develop more psychologically attuned branding, sponsorship, and athlete support strategies.