Caddie Eric Larson Blocked from Open Championship Due to Long-Standing Drug Charge

Harris English is set to compete in the upcoming Open Championship at Royal Portrush, but it appears he will do so without his regular caddie. Eric Larson is currently unable to travel to the United Kingdom after failing to secure a new Electronic Travel Authority visa, a requirement now imposed on American visitors.

Larson’s past has become a roadblock in his professional journey. Thirty years ago, he was convicted for sending cocaine to friends in the Midwest. Although Larson was neither a heavy user nor a large dealer, he spent over ten years in prison and was released from a halfway house in June 2006.

Continuing with his story, Larson mentioned that he only became aware of the need for an ETA visa after the U.S. Open. When he applied, his request was denied. The refusal stemmed from regulations preventing entry for individuals with a criminal record where they served 12 months or more in prison.

In a recent statement, English expressed his disappointment over the situation. “I guess the United Kingdom doesn’t look highly on his past,” he said at The Renaissance Club before the Scottish Open. “And apparently, it’s a work in progress.”

English, currently ranked 19th in the world and 10th in the national standings for the Ryder Cup, only learned about Larson’s predicament after finishing tied for fourth place at the Travelers Championship three weeks prior.

Upon realizing the complications Larson faced, English reached out to Warren Stephens, the U.S. ambassador to the U.K. This connection allowed him to collaborate with the ambassador’s chief of staff in hopes of resolving the matter.

“They wrote a letter. The R&A wrote a letter. The PGA Tour wrote a letter. A charity event that Eric works with in the States, Operation New Hope, also wrote a letter. It’s not for a lack of effort,” English explained. “I believe it could be sitting on someone’s desk at the government somewhere.”

Larson has been an integral part of English’s team, notably during the Ryder Cup in 2021 at Whistling Straits, where the U.S. team secured a decisive victory against Team Europe. This year’s Ryder Cup is scheduled to be held at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York.

As the Open Championship approaches, fans and players alike are keenly aware of the challenges surrounding Larson’s situation. The emotional toll of this experience weighs heavily on both caddies and players. Without Larson’s presence, English will face the tournament with a different dynamic on his team.

This incident raises broader questions about the immigration policies regarding individuals with past convictions seeking to enter various countries. Many are urging for increased awareness and reform in these policies, particularly those that disproportionately affect individuals attempting to make a fresh start after serving their time.

The sports community continues to rally support for Larson, emphasizing the need for understanding and second chances. English’s efforts to navigate this bureaucratic hurdle demonstrate the strong bond between player and caddie, transcending the typical professional relationship.

While Larson attends to these legal challenges, English remains focused on the competition ahead. His determination to perform well at the Open Championship reflects both his personal goals and his commitment to honor the partnership he has built with Larson over the years.

In light of this situation, many are expressing hopes that Larson will overcome these obstacles soon. The combined efforts of English and various organizations highlight the importance of supporting individuals aiming for redemption and success.

The resilience displayed in navigating this issue illustrates the unpredictability of professional sports and the continuous interplay between personal backgrounds and athletic aspirations. As the Open Championship nears, all eyes will be on Harris English and the efforts put forth to allow Eric Larson to join him on the grounds of Royal Portrush.

This report has included contributions from the Associated Press.

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