Intelligent sports development in the recently emerged Internet-of-things era is especially dependent on the gathering and analysis of athletic big data based on widely dispersed sensor networks. Conventional sensors have drawbacks such a short lifespan and high maintenance costs, and they typically require a separate power source. Recently, independent sensing devices and mechanical energy harvesting have been made possible with the ability to transcend these limitations through the use of triboelectric nanogenerators, or TENGs. Most notably, TENGs can be made from the materials most commonly used in sports—wood, paper, textiles, and polymers. An overview of recent developments in TENG development for intelligent sports is provided. First, an explanation of TENG’s operation and how it relates to sports big data is provided. The creation of wearable technology and smart sports facilities, as well as TENG-based sports sensing systems, is then emphasized. Finally, the remaining difficulties and untapped potential are also covered. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.