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Robots can run a marathon and play ping pong. But will they ever achieve true sporting greatness?

POSTED: 29 Apr, 2026

An article in The Conversation, co-authored by Centre Director Prof Jon Roberts and QUT Sport’s Marc Portus, explores the rapid rise of robots in sport, from marathon-running humanoids to robots competing with elite table tennis players.

The piece highlights that while robots can excel in precision, speed, and consistency, true sporting greatness goes beyond technical ability. Human performance is shaped by creativity, context, and decision-making under pressure, all elements that remain difficult to replicate. 

They argue the real opportunity is in using robotics to enhance training and better understand human performance, positioning robots as valuable partners in the future of sport.

READ THE ARTICLE