PGA Tour star Harris English is furious after his caddie, Eric Larson, was once again banned from entering the United Kingdom ahead of The Open Championship. English is scheduled to travel across the Atlantic for the Scottish Open, starting Thursday, and then compete in The Open the following week. However, Larson will not be with him.
Caddie Denied Entry Due to 30-Year-Old Drug Convictions
Larson was unable to clear the Electronic Travel Authority Visa, which is required for Americans. New UK rules stipulate that applicants who have committed a crime carrying a 12-month prison sentence can be refused entry. Larson's denial stems from drug convictions dating back 30 years. He spent 10 years and three months in prison after sending cocaine to friends and was fully released in 2006.
Impact on English's Preparation
This is not the first time Larson has been barred from entering the UK for a major tournament. The ban leaves English without his trusted caddie for two crucial events: the Scottish Open and The Open Championship. English expressed frustration over the situation, as Larson's past continues to affect his career decades later.
According to sources close to the player, English is exploring options to have Larson's entry reconsidered but faces an uphill battle given the strict visa regulations.
