Team Europe Uses VR to Prep for Bethpage Noise at Ryder Cup

Team Europe used virtual reality headsets to simulate the noise expected from the crowds at Bethpage Black during the Ryder Cup, a prep method the players described as a 'fun little gimmick.'

Højgaard said he tried the headsets and that they gave a picture of how the first tee, wraparound stands and the overall atmosphere would look and feel. Rose, a veteran European captain's pick, said he didn’t use them for more than five minutes but appreciated the concept behind supplying the equipment. Rory McIlroy had revealed during the BMW Championship that captain Luke Donald provided the VR headsets to the European players after a team gathering, noting the exercise was meant to help players gauge the visual and auditory surroundings.

With the Ryder Cup set to pit Team USA against Team Europe, Tuesday and Wednesday marked the first two days fans were allowed on the grounds at Bethpage State Park. Åberg said he heard some chirping from the gallery during practice rounds, while Højgaard called the crowds 'great' and said Europe enjoyed solid support and that players were prepared for the inevitable noise.

Collin Morikawa described the crowds as 'tame' and urged American fans to bring 'chaos' to the Ryder Cup when play begins on Friday.

Bethpage Black has posed a unique environment for the biennial event, and European players have shown creativity in their preparations. The VR exercise reflects a broader trend of teams using technology to simulate large, partisan crowds ahead of high-stakes matches. The Ryder Cup schedule continues with opening rounds Friday, as fans are expected to fill the course and influence the dynamic at Bethpage.