Unless his US visa-stamped passport arrives this Friday by mail, Jeson Patrombon may have to forego playing in the US Open junior tournament in New York.

“That’s the worst-case scenario,” said Patrombon’s coach Manny Tecson.

Tecson said they have been waiting for Patrombon’s passport since Tuesday after receiving news that the 17-year-old has been granted a US visa.

Patrombon could not get an early interview for his visa at the US embassy in Manila because he had to compete in the Youth Olympics in Singapore. As soon as he arrived, the visa application was immediately sent to the embassy. It was approved and sent to Patrombon by mail which is standard procedure.

Should the passport arrive this Thursday, Tecson said they will leave in a 10:30 p.m. flight on Friday in time for the September 5 opening junior matches.