Author(s): SANPASITT, C., YONGTAWEE, A., NOIKHAMMUEANG, T., WOO, M., Institution: CHULALONGKORN UNIVERSITY, Country: THAILAND, Abstract-ID: 555

INTRODUCTION:
The ratio between the lengths of the index and ring fingers (2D:4D) defined as a biological indicator for athletic performance; it is considered a potential marker for prenatal testosterone exposure. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between 2D:4D ratios, physical fitness, and specific soccer skill in young male soccer players.
METHODS:
One hundred and thirty-two young male soccer players aged 13-15 years old were recruited for participation and categorized according to three distinct playing positions: defenders, midfielders, and forwards. Anthropometric profiles, including height, weight, body fat percentage, and 2D:4D finger length ratio, were evaluated. Furthermore, acceleration ability; 10m, 20m, and 30m sprint; VO2max; Yo-Yo intermittent level-1 test; and change of direction; arrowhead agility tests were assessed. We used the Loughborough soccer passing and dribbling protocol to measure each player’s soccer-specific performance.
RESULTS:
A significant positive correlation between the right and left digits’ ratios (r = 0.644, p < 0.001) was observed, indicating a strong linear relationship. The analysis revealed that the 2D:4D ratio of both hands demonstrated no significant differences between playing positions. Furthermore, arrowhead agility tests showed a weakly positive, correlation with right 2D:4D (r = 0.251, p = 0.004). Moreover, we detected strong significant correlations between agility and acceleration ability (10m; r = 0.750, 20m; r = 0.763, and 30m; r = 0.760). The associations between both right and left 2D:4D and 10m, 20m, and 30-m sprint times were statistically insignificant. We observed that the VO2max had a weakly negative correlation with dribbling time (r = −0.257, p = 0.003) and a positive correlation with long passing capacity (r = 0.312, p < 0.001).
CONCLUSION:
Our results provide strong evidence regarding the utility of the 2D:4D ratio in the identification of talent and performance optimization of young male soccer players. Our detection of the strong correlation of the 2D:4D ratio with change of direction ability and aerobic endurance can also ultimately serve as a key predictor of passing and dribbling performance in young male athletes.