Europe Uses VR Headsets to Simulate US Crowd Abuse for Ryder Cup

Ahead of the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York, Team Europe has adopted an innovative approach to prepare for the anticipated intense and hostile home crowd atmosphere by using virtual reality headsets to simulate crowd abuse. European captain Luke Donald distributed these VR headsets during a team gathering to acclimatize players, including Rory McIlroy, who described the exercise as a means to desensitize themselves to the 'sights and sounds' they will face on the course. McIlroy revealed players could customize the level and type of abuse they heard, with the intent to replicate the harsh environment as closely as possible, although he refrained from disclosing specific content. Despite these preparations, McIlroy acknowledged that nothing can fully prepare the team until they are actually competing, emphasizing the unpredictability and intensity of the Ryder Cup's opening tee. The European squad, aiming to win an away Ryder Cup for the first time since 2012, also engaged in team dinners and practice rounds to further ready themselves for the event. This methodical and psychological preparation highlights the importance Europe places on mental toughness to counteract the passionate American crowd and improve their chances on Long Island.