Europe to use uses VR headsets to prepare for Ryder noise and abuse

Rory McIlroy reveals that Europe captain Luke Donald has given players VR equipment which allows players to visualise the course while adjusting the noise — and insults — from outside the ropes

NOISE REDUCTION: Rory McIlroy arrives at Heathrow Airport ahead of his departure back to the US ahead of next week's Ryder Cup . Pic: Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Whatever heckling European players might face at the Ryder Cup in New York could be what they already have heard before, all because of virtual reality headsets that Rory McIlroy says can be adjusted to hear the harshest abuse.

Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald has said his European team will be prepared for the noise at Bethpage Black, the public course with the reputation for having among the rowdiest and at times obnoxious golf fans.