Is a player's caddy considered an outside influence?

A player's caddy is not viewed as an outside influence because the caddy is an integral part of the player's support team, specifically hired to assist with strategy, club selection, and course management. In this context, the relationship between the player and the caddy is one of collaboration, which is fundamentally different from outside influences, such as spectators or external advisors.

The caddy's role is to enhance the player’s performance through partnership and guidance, making them a trusted part of the player's internal decision-making process rather than an outside entity. This reinforcement of the caddy's position within the player's circle means that their input is designed to benefit the player directly, rather than impede or distract them, which is characteristic of an outside influence.

The other choices imply circumstances under which a caddy could be considered outside influence, but these situations do not align with the established understanding of their role in competitive play.