English’s British Open Gamble: Caddie Controversy Clouds Tournament Hopes
Harris English Faces British Open Challenge Without Familiar Face on the Bag
The 2025 British Open is shaping up to be a tournament of adjustments for PGA Tour veteran Harris English. The five-time winner, known for his consistent performance, is heading into the prestigious event at Royal Portrush without his long-time caddie, Eric Larson, a situation that has cast a shadow over English’s preparation and tournament prospects.
The core issue? Larson was denied entry into the United Kingdom due to a past drug conviction, a hurdle that has unexpectedly sidelined their long-standing professional partnership. This forced English to scramble for a replacement as he prepares to compete on golf’s grandest stage.
Visa Denied: A Past Mistake Haunts Larson’s UK Travel
The circumstances surrounding Larson’s visa denial are, as reported, a result of a past conviction. Despite having previously caddied for English in numerous British Opens and other major tournaments, a decades-old drug conviction—for which Larson served more than a year in prison—proved to be an insurmountable obstacle this time. The UK’s strict immigration policies, it seems, left little room for leniency, even in light of Larson’s previously successful entries into the country.
This situation highlights the complex intersection of personal history and international travel, particularly for individuals with prior legal entanglements. For Larson, this visa denial represents a significant professional setback, preventing him from supporting English in a tournament that carries immense prestige.
Putting Coach Steps Up: Ramon Bescansa to Caddie for English
With Larson unavailable, English has turned to a familiar face for assistance: his putting coach, Ramon Bescansa. While Bescansa’s expertise primarily lies in the art of putting, he will now take on the added responsibilities of caddying for English. The move underscores the close-knit nature of professional golf and the necessity of adapting to unforeseen circumstances.
This isn’t the first time this unfortunate situation has presented itself. English utilized a different temporary caddie for the Scottish Open, highlighting the consistent challenge this visa denial presents for the player.
The Impact on English’s Performance
The absence of a familiar caddie can significantly impact a golfer’s performance. The caddie-player relationship is built on trust, communication, and an intimate understanding of the golfer’s game. A caddie offers strategic advice, course management insights, and, perhaps most importantly, a source of support and calmness under pressure. Replacing that bond, even temporarily, presents a significant challenge.
It remains to be seen how this disruption will affect English’s performance at the British Open. However, it’s undeniable that he faces a steeper uphill battle than he otherwise would have. The pressure of a major tournament, combined with the adjustments required of a new caddie, creates an added layer of complexity for English as he navigates the demanding links course.
Looking Ahead
The situation surrounding Harris English and Eric Larson serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities that can arise in professional sports. While English focuses on his performance on the course, the story of his caddie’s UK travel ban raises questions about the long-term implications of past mistakes and the challenges faced by those seeking redemption. Golf fans worldwide will be watching closely to see how English and Bescansa fare in their impromptu partnership at the British Open.
The saga is not only affecting English’s performance. It is a testament to the importance of international travel rules and the lasting consequences of past legal transgressions. This is a storyline that will likely continue to unfold beyond the tournament itself.