Rory McIlroy reveals European team prepares for Ryder Cup crowd hostility with VR

In preparation for the Ryder Cup, which will take place at Bethpage Black in the United States, Rory McIlroy and the European golf team are utilizing virtual reality headsets to acclimatize to the potentially hostile crowd. This advanced technology aims to simulate the intense atmosphere that the players will encounter from the American spectators, known for their rowdiness and harsh criticisms. During a press conference following the BMW PGA Championship, McIlroy explained that team captain Luke Donald distributed the VR equipment to the players during a team meeting. The goal is to desensitize the players to the noise and insults they may face, allowing them to visualize the course while simultaneously exposing themselves to various simulated verbal abuses. By engaging with these virtual scenarios, the team hopes to build a mental resilience that will be beneficial when they actually step onto the course for the competition. The European team is not unfamiliar with the challenges of competing in the United States, having last won the Ryder Cup on American soil in 2012, which required a remarkable comeback performance. McIlroy articulated the importance of being prepared for the reality that awaits them, recognizing that despite all the preparation, nothing can entirely substitute for the actual experience on the course. He emphasized that even with the training and familiarization exercises using the VR technology, they have to deal with whatever challenges arise once the event commences. Sepp Straka, a member of the European team, missed the recent team gathering as he was home with a newborn. Nevertheless, he is expected to join the group for further practices leading up to the tournament. The European team has also celebrated the increase in supportive fans compared to their last experience on American turf, where attendance was significantly affected by worldwide travel restrictions due to COVID-19, leading to a lack of European supporters who could cheer for their team. As anticipation builds for the competition set to start on a Friday, McIlroy noted that the European players are putting their best efforts into preparing themselves adequately. This preparation includes acclimating to the expected noise and pressure that comes with competing in front of a potentially critical audience. With VR as a tool, they are venturing into new territory to enhance their competitiveness and fortify their mentality, making them better equipped for the challenges of the Ryder Cup.