Celebrity Fan Web – In a bold and modern preparation strategy, Europe’s Ryder Cup team is using virtual reality headsets to simulate the intense atmosphere expected at Bethpage Black. The move is designed to prepare players for the notorious New York crowd as they aim for their first away victory since 2012.
“Read More : Bold Flavors Shine in Pineapple Pudding Cake Recipe”
European captain Luke Donald has introduced the VR sessions to replicate the heckling, crowd noise, and visual intensity that players will face during the biennial contest. New York sports fans are known for their passion and hostility, making this year’s away Ryder Cup a formidable challenge.
Rory McIlroy, a key member of the European squad, confirmed the use of the technology while competing at the BMW PGA Championship. “It is to simulate the sights and sounds,” McIlroy said. “That’s the stuff that we are going to have to deal with.”
While McIlroy did not share the exact phrases used in the simulations, he hinted at the intensity. “You can get them to say whatever you want them to say,” he added. “You can go as close to the bone as you like.”
Donald’s approach reflects a growing trend in elite sports to use technology for mental conditioning, not just physical readiness. His goal is to desensitize players to the expected abuse before they step onto the first tee.
Bethpage Black, located in Long Island, New York, is known for its vocal crowds and challenging layout. McIlroy acknowledged the emotional toll such environments can have. “Winning an away Ryder Cup is one of the hardest things in the sport,” he said. The European team flies out to New York this Sunday and will begin official practice rounds on Monday and Tuesday.
Europe’s Quest for Rare Away Win Begins With Mental Fortitude and Strategic Preparation
The 45th Ryder Cup will take place from September 26-28, and the European team knows the magnitude of the challenge ahead. Although they are defending champions following a 16½-11½ win in Rome in 2023, away victories have been rare.
Europe has only managed two away wins in the 21st century—once in 2004 and again in 2012. Donald’s VR-based mental training reflects the understanding that this year’s contest could be one of the toughest yet.
McIlroy noted that, despite the high expectations of American fans, New York might still surprise. “We might get there and be like, this actually isn’t as bad as we thought it would be,” he said.
He also pointed out that New York is a cosmopolitan city with many residents identifying as part European. This could result in a more balanced crowd than anticipated, although a home-field advantage is still expected. “Whether you’re an American team going to Europe or a European team going to America, you’re up against the crowd as well,” McIlroy said.
“Read More : Scottie Scheffler Secures PGA Tour Win Ahead of Ryder Cup”
Bethpage Black’s setting on Long Island means it’s close enough to the heart of the city to draw passionate fans, yet isolated enough to become a high-pressure “bear pit,” as Donald described it.
Europe’s strategy goes beyond club selection and swing mechanics—it focuses on emotional resilience. With limited away wins in recent history, every edge matters. Whether the VR simulations can truly mimic the roar of a New York crowd remains to be seen, but for now, Team Europe is leaving no detail to chance.