Why Are PGA Tour Caddies Wearing Special Bibs at FedEx St. Jude Championship 2025?

The FedEx St. Jude Championship has always been more than just a golf tournament—it’s a celebration of hope, generosity, and the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Since its partnership began decades ago, the event at TPC Southwind in Memphis has raised millions in support of St. Jude’s mission to “Find cures. Save children.”

That commitment to compassion was on full display at the 2025 edition of the FedEx St. Jude Championship, where the week was filled with touching moments between PGA Tour stars and young patients. For instance, Will Zalatoris wore custom FootJoy shoes designed by a young patient named Calvin, which he said helped put everything “in perspective.” On the 18th green, honorary pin-flag caddies—children like Maelin-Kate, Riley, Azalea, Mabry, Matthew, and Will—brought cheers and smiles, reinforcing the spirit of hope throughout the event. Collin Morikawa shared putting tips with five young patients, encouraging Azalea with the promise, “We’re not going to leave until you make it.” One particularly emotional moment was five-year-old Riley being honored as a “Purple Eagle” when a FedEx plane was emblazoned with his name, drawing tears and applause from families and fans alike.

Regardless, one of the most visible and talked-about tributes came in the form of the caddie bibs. The normally standard white bibs were replaced with colorful, one-of-a-kind designs, each drawn by a St. Jude patient. As GOLF.com shared on X: “The custom caddie bibs at the St. Jude Championship are special. The artwork was created by patients of St. Jude Children’s Hospital.” Photos highlighted Scottie Scheffler’s caddie with a big heart, Xander Schauffele’s with an adorable butterfly, and Tommy Fleetwood’s with a playful fish. The sight of these vibrant bibs on the backs of golf’s biggest stars reminded players, fans, and viewers alike that every swing at TPC Southwind supports something far greater than a leaderboard.

The tradition of uniting world-class golfers with St. Jude patients—both in person and virtually—has been a hallmark of the event since 1970, when founder Danny Thomas partnered with Memphis leaders to designate St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as the Memphis Open’s official charity. Over the decades, this partnership has generated more than $50 million for the hospital’s lifesaving work. To safeguard the health of patients and their families, the tournament continues to follow CDC guidelines, including mask use indoors and mindful social distancing.

“Creating artwork is an important part of treatment at St. Jude, and it also builds a direct connection with the professional golfers, because the images symbolize stories of triumph. We are grateful for the PGA TOUR and our partners at FedEx for supporting the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during this unforgettable week of competition and global awareness for a great cause,” said Richard C. Shadyac Jr., President and CEO of ALSAC, the hospital’s fundraising and awareness organization.

Moreover, this heartwarming gesture wasn’t the first at this championship. Another powerful moment came earlier when Maverick McNealy made headlines for swapping his regular caddie for a very special young companion.

Maverick McNealy’s wholesome caddie switch

For Maverick McNealy, the 2025 FedEx St. Jude Championship wasn’t just about climbing the FedEx Cup standings—it was about making a difference. The 29-year-old arrived at TPC Southwind without his usual caddie, brother Scout McNealy. Instead, by his side was Elizabeth, a young St. Jude patient whose smile lit up the course.

“Breaking news out of Memphis: Scout is off the bag for the @fedexchamp… and Elizabeth is stepping in! 👀” McNealy posted on Instagram. “Love the @stjude heart behind this tournament—always a powerful reminder of perspective and what really matters. Thanks for the great read, Elizabeth!!!” Before the first tee shot, McNealy was seen sharing a sweet tour of the course with Elizabeth, introducing her to the ropes and letting her take center stage.

Fans flooded social media with praise. “The PGA Tour has a special one in Mav! ❤” wrote one supporter. Another declared, “We love Memphis and we love St. Jude!” It wasn’t McNealy’s first act of generosity. He has previously donated birdie earnings to Shriners Hospitals and is known for using his platform to promote causes greater than himself.

In a week where playoff hopes were on the line, McNealy’s gesture reminded everyone why the FedEx St. Jude Championship is so beloved: it’s not just about golf—it’s about compassion, community, and playing for something far bigger than a trophy.