Team Europe Embraces VR Technology Ahead of Ryder Cup Challenge
The European golf team is turning to virtual reality (VR) technology as part of their preparation for the upcoming Ryder Cup, set to take place at Bethpage Black in New York. Players including Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm have been experimenting with VR headsets designed to replicate the intense atmosphere and crowd noise they can expect during the tournament, which runs from September 22 to 26, 2023.
During a team gathering hosted by captain Luke Donald ahead of the BMW PGA Championship, players donned the VR headsets to experience a simulated version of the heckling and excitement that characterizes the Ryder Cup. The technology allowed individuals to tailor the level of crowd noise, providing an immersive preview of what they will face on the first tee.
McIlroy, who is set to make his eighth consecutive Ryder Cup appearance, emphasized the importance of desensitization before the competition. “It’s better to try to desensitize yourself as much as possible before you get in there,” he stated after completing a final-round 65 at Wentworth. He further elaborated on his experience with the VR headsets, saying, “They said, ‘How far do you want this [heckling] to go?’ and I said, ‘Go as far as you want!'”
Rahm, the top scorer for the European team during their record-breaking loss in 2021, also appreciated the early exposure to the venue through VR. “VR is never anywhere close to real life,” he remarked. “But you get an idea of what it’s going to look like ahead of time.” The immersive experience also allowed players to practice their tee shots while engaging with the simulated environment.
Preparing for the Unique Challenges of an Away Ryder Cup
Both McIlroy and Rahm are among the eight players on Team Europe who have prior experience competing in away Ryder Cups. McIlroy has expressed a desire to develop a thicker skin heading into this year’s contest, recalling previous incidents where he reacted to fan provocation. “I understand that you have to do a better job of putting the blinkers on and not seeing and hearing everything out there,” he explained.
With the Ryder Cup taking place in New York, McIlroy anticipates increased support compared to past events, especially since the atmosphere will be less restricted due to the absence of COVID-19 protocols. “We should get a little more support but at the same time, you’re going to America with an American crowd,” he noted.
The European team is determined to reclaim the trophy and achieve their first victory on American soil since 2012. As excitement builds for the tournament, McIlroy and his teammates are utilizing every tool at their disposal to prepare for the unique challenges that lie ahead.
Live Coverage and Upcoming Events
Fans can look forward to extensive live coverage of the Ryder Cup week, starting on September 22, 2023. Coverage will begin with live build-up at 09:00 local time on September 26, ahead of full coverage from midday. Viewers can catch all the action on Sky Sports or stream it without a contract on NOW.
As the tournament approaches, the use of VR technology could prove to be a crucial component in Team Europe’s strategy, helping them adapt to the demanding environment of the Ryder Cup while fostering a spirit of camaraderie and preparation among the players.
