Rory McIlroy and the European team prepare for the hostile Ryder Cup environment with virtual reality technology
VIRGINIA WATER, England – The European golf team is preparing for the intense atmosphere they will encounter at the upcoming Ryder Cup in New York. Rory McIlroy revealed that captain Luke Donald has implemented an innovative strategy to help players deal with the noise and potential provocations from American fans. According to McIlroy, the team received virtual reality equipment that simulates the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of Bethpage Black, the golf course known for its loud and sometimes controversial audience.Technology allows golfers to adjust the noise level, including potential insults, to mentally prepare for what they might face during competition. The European team, which includes eleven players present at Wentworth, will travel to New York to practice at Bethpage Black. Sepp Straka, who was at home due to the birth of his son, will join the team. It is important to note that Straka is one of the five European players who have never competed at Bethpage Black. The last time Europe won the Ryder Cup on American soil was in 2012 in Medinah, thanks to an impressive comeback led by Ian Poulter. McIlroy commented that, despite preparation efforts, the actual experience on the field will be unique. “We are doing everything we can to prepare in the best way for what it will feel like on Friday of the week,” McIlroy added. “But nothing can really prepare you until you’re there. You can use all the virtual reality headsets you want and do all the different things we’ve been trying to do to prepare, but once the first tee arrives on Friday, it’s real and we just have to deal with what comes our way.” Europe hopes to have more support than at the 2021 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits, where COVID-19 pandemic travel restrictions limited the presence of European fans.It’s to simulate the sights, the sounds, and the noise. That’s what we’re going to have to deal with. So it’s better to try to desensitize yourself as much as possible before going in there. You can make them say whatever you want.
Rory McIlroy
