Which of the following best defines mental toughness in sports?

Mental toughness in sports is predominantly defined as the ability to maintain focus under pressure. This quality encompasses an athlete's resilience, confidence, and determination in challenging situations. Athletes with high mental toughness can stay composed, make sound decisions, and perform at their best, even when faced with significant stress or adversity.

This aspect of mental toughness is vital as it directly impacts an athlete's performance during competitions when the stakes are high and distractions abound. It allows athletes to push through fatigue, overcome obstacles, and recover from setbacks without losing sight of their goals.

While the other options touch on important factors related to athletic performance, they don't capture the essence of mental toughness as effectively. Strict adherence to training schedules reflects discipline but doesn’t specifically address how one handles pressure. Consistent success in competitions may indicate mental toughness, but it is more of an outcome than a defining characteristic. Having strong support from coaches can enhance an athlete’s performance but is not in itself a measure of mental toughness. Thus, the best definition lies in the ability to maintain focus under pressure.