PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL — In a groundbreaking move to address the perennial identity crisis of its flagship event, the PGA Tour has announced the introduction of 'Emotional Support Caddies' for this year's Players Championship. The program, designed to bolster player morale amidst persistent questions about the tournament's 'major' status, will see specially trained caddies offering more than just yardage advice.

"We understand the psychological toll it takes on a player to consistently perform at a major-level event that isn't, technically, a major," stated PGA Tour spokesperson, Chip Puttman, during a press conference held next to a giant, slightly deflated 'Major-Adjacent' banner. "Our Emotional Support Caddies are equipped with advanced listening skills, positive affirmations, and an emergency supply of gluten-free protein bars. They're there to remind players that even if it doesn't have 'Major' in the name, it's still a really, really important tournament."

Initial feedback from players has been mixed. "My caddie kept whispering, 'You're doing great, champ, even if this isn't a real championship,' after every bogey," reported one anonymous golfer. "It was... distracting. Also, he cried more than I did after my triple-bogey on 17."

Critics argue the initiative sidesteps the core issue. "Perhaps if they just called it a major, they wouldn't need to hire professional hand-holders," mused golf analyst, Sandy Trapp. "It's like giving a participation trophy to a tournament."

The PGA Tour remains confident the program will help players focus on the golf, rather than the ongoing existential debate, ensuring that everyone involved feels adequately supported in their pursuit of a non-major, yet still incredibly significant, victory.