In golf, what is considered an outside influence for a player?

In golf, an outside influence refers to anything that can impact a player's ability to play the game or the outcome of a shot that is not a result of the player's actions or decisions within the game. Specifically, having a caddie present is considered an integral and permissible part of the game, rather than an outside influence. The caddie's role is to provide advice, carry clubs, and assist the player, thus they are part of the team's structure, not an outside entity.

The correct interpretation focuses on individuals or entities that are not formally part of a player's team or strategy. In this context, a passing spectator can unintentionally influence the game, making them an outside influence. Other options like weather conditions and the wind are natural elements which do affect play but are not classified as outside influences in the same way that an unrelated individual, such as a spectator, might be.