Siddiqur Rahman withdraws from Philippine golf tournament due to visa complications

Staff Correspondent

Manila/Dhaka, October 21, 2025: Bangladesh’s top golfer Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman has withdrawn from a key golf tournament in the Philippines due to visa complications.

This incident is being seen as another example of administrative obstacles to Bangladeshi athletes’ participation in international competitions.

Siddiqur’s participation in the tournament, organized under the Asian Tour, was confirmed, but unexpected complications arose in the Philippines’ visa process. “Despite efforts, the visa was not approved, which completely ruined the tournament preparations. Siddiqur is very disappointed,” said a close source.

This is a major setback to his recent form, where he finished 34th in the Macau International Series. Siddiqur had previously been unable to participate in the Oman International Series due to visa denials.

Siddiqur Rahman is Bangladesh’s first Asian Tour winner (Brunei Open, 2010), who has won 12 amateur titles. His coach said, “Such obstacles demoralize athletes, but an experienced player like Siddiqur will overcome it.”

The Bangladesh Golf Federation said it would investigate the incident and take steps to increase international travel assistance. The incident has sparked a wider debate over visa and travel privileges for Bangladeshi athletes, which could pose challenges for upcoming tournaments.