Trump Grants Pardon to PGA Caddy Eric Larson
Golf caddy Eric Larson, who was barred from working in the UK due to a past cocaine conviction, has received a presidential pardon from Donald Trump.
President Donald Trump has issued a pardon to PGA caddy Eric Larson, whose prior conviction for cocaine dealing had prevented him from accompanying golfer Harris English to tournaments in the United Kingdom.
Larson, 66, had been unable to travel to the UK for events like the British Open because the British government requires electronic authorization for travelers, which had been denied to him due to his criminal record. This prevented him from earning potential income, such as the $126,000 he missed in 2025 when English finished second at The Open.
Trump informed Larson and English of the pardon during a group call on September 3. The pardon was first reported by The New York Post and has not been officially announced by the White House, though a request for confirmation has been made to White House spokespeople.
Larson pleaded guilty 30 years ago to charges related to distributing cocaine. He served nearly 11 years in prison, being released in 2006. He maintains he was not a user and not a major dealer.
His caddying career began after his release when PGA player Mark Calcavecchia hired him. He later worked with players like Anthony Kim, Jeff Overton, and for the past 11 years, Harris English. Larson first met Trump through Kim and has since golfed with the president at Trump National in West Palm Beach, where he previously discussed his situation.
Despite his connection to Trump, Larson stated he also submitted a formal application for a pardon through the Justice Department. "I want it to be based on my merits, not because I know him," Larson told The New York Post. "I've done all the right things since Day One, since my crime."
Larson expressed gratitude for the pardon, stating, "I'm very fortunate. I'm grateful. I got a chance now." He is anticipating the 2027 season, which is expected to include several tournaments in the UK. "As long as I can still caddy, I'll caddy. As long as I'm walking and as long as Harris has me," Larson said.