Athletic mental energy and self-efficacy are two interrelated concepts that can influence each other across all sports branches. Both concepts emphasize parameters such as resilience in the face of challenges and the ability to achieve success. This study aims to examine the levels of athletic mental energy and self-efficacy among athletes engaged in defensive sports in terms of various variables. The study was designed using a relational survey model, and its population consisted of athletes in Turkey who have been practicing a defensive sport for at least one year. The sample comprised a total of 167 athletes (%32,90 female and %67,10 male) from table tennis disciplines. To collect data, the study utilized a Personal Information Form developed by the researcher, the Athletic Mental Energy Scale consisting of 18 items and 6 sub-dimensions using a 6-point Likert-type format, and the Effective Decision-Making Scale consisting of 17 items and 4 sub-dimensions using a 5-point Likert-type format. Descriptive statistics were used in the analysis of the data, along with Pearson correlation, regression analysis, independent samples t-test, and one-way analysis of variance. The analyses were conducted using the SPSS software package, and the level of statistical significance was set at p<0.05. According to the findings, mental toughness and decision-making skills of table tennis athletes showed significant differences based on gender, age, years of experience in sports, education level, and level of competition, but no significant difference was found based on national team status. Moreover, a positive and significant relationship was observed between athletes’ mental toughness levels and their decision-making skills. It was determined that mental toughness significantly predicted decision-making skills. Accordingly, it can be stated that athletes with high mental toughness are also likely to have strong decision-making abilities.