Trump Pardons PGA Caddy Eric Larson, Clearing Way For Him To Travel To British Open

Former President Donald Trump has used his presidential pardon power to clear the way for PGA caddy Eric Larson to travel to tournaments in the United Kingdom, including the Scottish Open and next year’s British Open.

Background

Larson was barred from entering the U.K. last year because of a decades-old criminal record. He served approximately 11 years in prison after a drug‑dealing conviction about 30 years ago, and U.K. authorities denied him authorization to travel for the 2023 Open.

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That year, the player Larson works for, Harris English, finished second at the Open and earned $1.8 million, according to The New York Post. Caddies typically earn around a 7% commission, so Larson missed out on a substantial payday when he could not accompany English.

Harris English told The New York Post: "I'm just so pumped for Eric that he can have his rights back ... and travel to be by my side and work for me specifically at the Scottish Open and the British Open. He knows what it's like to have your freedom taken away. He just brings so much joy."

What the Pardon Means

The pardon restores Larson’s eligibility to enter the U.K. for professional reasons and allows him to resume working alongside English at upcoming UK tournaments. The move highlights how clemency can affect not only long-term legal consequences but also immediate professional opportunities for people working in international sports.

Sources: The New York Post; original reports surfaced via entertainment outlets.