Why DP World Tour golfers are wearing black ribbons on their hats in India

Several DP World Tour golfers have been spotted wearing black ribbons on their caps throughout the inaugural India Championship. 

Former Open champion and Europe's Ryder Cup hero, Shane Lowry, was among those to have the strip pinned to the back of his cap. 

Europe's Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald, Martin Couvra and Dale Whitnell also wore one. 

Given the colour, you will not be surprised to learn that the players are paying a heartfelt tribute. 

It is understood they are honouring the memory of former caddie John "Scotchy" Graham. 

Graham's death was announced at the beginning of the week by Caddie World and former World No.1 Lee Westwood was among those to pay tribute to the looper. 

Scotchy was an incredibly well-respected figure on the circuit and was on the bag for Westwood when he won his first PGA Tour title in 1998 at the Freeport-McDermott Classic. 

The Scotsman also caddied for Westwood at the 2004 Ryder Cup held at Oakland Hills. 

During his career, Graham also caddied for Howard Clark and Soren Hanson. 

Professional golfers often wear ribbons on their hats at various tournaments for different reasons. 

Rory McIlroy and several others wore green ribbons on their hats during the Irish Open to raise money and awareness for the Make A Wish foundation. 

Competitors in the field at the annual Memorial Tournament, hosted by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, wear yellow ribbons to show support for Play Yellow. 

During the Tour Championship in August, multiple players wore ribbons for Scottie Scheffler's caddie Ted Scott. Scott's nephew, Joel, was recovering from a serious injury at the time. 

"A friend to everyone"

Graham's death was announced by Caddie World last Sunday. He had cancer. 

"So sad to announce we have lost our friend John 'Scotchy' Graham following a long brave battle with illness," the statement read from Caddie World. 

"A friend to everyone who crossed his path we will remember him as a big personality with a smile and a story for every occasion. Our thoughts and prayers go to his children, family and friends everywhere."

The aforementioned Westwood posted a snap of their pair on Instagram, writing: "Rest in peace Scotchy xxx". 

Colin Montgomerie's former caddie Alastair McClean paid his own tribute, writing: "Terrible news this morning to learn that John Graham, aka Scotchy, had made his way up to the fairways in heaven.

"What a man he was. Never a dull moment when Scotchy was in your company. His stories were famous for the humour and insight.

"Stuff you just couldn’t make up. We will all miss you my friend. Just remember, you might need one less club up there with the air being a bit lighter.

"Thoughts with Caroline and all the family. Gone but never forgotten."

Justin Rose described Graham as a legend. As did his caddie Mark 'Fooch' Fulcher.