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AUGUSTA, Ga. — In case anyone needed a reminder how serious Augusta National is about its no-phone policy at the Masters, a major champion onsite as a patron was asked to leave the tournament after being caught using his cell phone.
Mark Calcavecchia, 65, was removed from the property on Wednesday, according to a report from Golfweek‘s Adam Schupak.
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When reached for comment, the 1989 Open Champion reportedly told Schupak, “I’ve got nothing negative to say about Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters, so I think we should literally hang up right now.”
The ban on cell phones inside Augusta’s gates is one of the most unique elements of the Masters and certainly takes some getting used to for everyone in attendance.
“I’ve never gone this long without knowing what I look like,” said a young lady before asking her friends how her hair looked.
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Exclusive: Major champion booted from the premises at Augusta National. Do not mess with the Masters no phone policy. Story here: https://t.co/yRaYDhwLyv
— Adam Schupak (@AdamSchupak) April 8, 2026
Another was heard wondering if there is a larger group of people anywhere on earth without their cell phones.
How does rule impact fan experience?
Besides the obvious logistical hiccups such as getting separated from your group and suddenly realizing this was perhaps something that should have been planned for, the real impact is felt once the action begins on tournament days.
With no cell phones or video boards on the golf course, patrons rely on hand-operated scoreboards, word of mouth and audible roars to follow the storylines that weave their way through the towering pines.
“They’re saving us from ourselves,” one wise patron was overheard saying.
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There certainly is a truth to that statement as those in attendance are forced speak to one another, and to soak in the reality of what is in front of them rather than stare at a six-inch digital version of reality on their cell phone cameras.
“Very peaceful,” Scottie Scheffler said to describe his practice rounds. “There’s no phones. There’s no people asking for selfies in the middle of the round. It’s very calm out there.
“And people follow the rules here,” he added.
Well, most people.
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