During Saturday’s third round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational at famed Bay Hill, Harris English’s caddie, Eric Larson, found himself in the middle of a social media storm. A video posted on X by @Buccigross showed Larson leaning in for a close look at which club Scottie Scheffler used for his approach into the par-4 15th.
Fans quickly reacted, some outraged, suggesting the move might break the rules. But here’s the key: Larson’s actions were completely legal — and this kind of observation is far from unusual on Tour.
Rick Golfs (@Top100Rick), a popular golf analyst, was first to step in, urging fans to calm down and explaining why this isn’t a violation. While caddies can watch what club another player uses, they cannot verbally ask about it or communicate that information. Doing so would breach Rule 10.2a (Giving Advice) and result in a two-stroke penalty in stroke play, or loss of hole in match play.
Rick summed it up perfectly on X: “A lot is being made of Harris English’s caddie brazenly looking at Scottie Scheffler’s club and relating the info to Harris. This is legal. You can look at what club another player is using. You just can’t ask or tell what club. Don’t ask, don’t tell.”
Harris English
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Rick added: “Is it all a bit silly? Sure. But the rule exists to keep things fair. Imagine playing with someone who hits the same distances as you — knowing every club they use would be a huge advantage. At least right now, you have to be close by to see the club.”
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On the day, both Scheffler and English carded level-par 72s to remain at 3-under par. That is 10 shots off the pace currently being set by Daniel Berger, who leads by one shot over Akshay Bhatia heading into the final round of the latest $20 PGA Tour Signature Event.
Scheffler, English and their caddies will meet again on Sunday at 11.40am. We’ll take the over 7.5 on Larson looks at Scheffler’s club there.
So, what’s your take on this rule? Ever had a moment in your own rounds where observation could’ve made a difference — legally or otherwise? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the conversation on GolfMagic’s social channels.
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