Former major winner kicked off Augusta National for cell phone

Mark Calcavecchia, the 1989 Open champion, was reportedly escorted from the Masters tournament for violating the strict no-phones policy.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:19pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a golfer walking on the grounds of Augusta National Golf Club, with the iconic clubhouse visible in the background, all rendered in a fractured, multi-perspective style.A former major champion's violation of Augusta National's strict no-phones policy exposes the tournament's unwavering commitment to tradition.Augusta Today

According to a report in Golfweek, Mark Calcavecchia, the 1989 Open Championship winner, was escorted from Augusta National Golf Club by security for having a cell phone on the property during the Masters tournament. Augusta National has a longstanding policy prohibiting patrons from bringing cell phones onto the course, a rule that is strictly enforced even for former major champions who are invited to attend the event.

Why it matters

The Masters is known for its traditional and exclusive culture, and the no-cell-phone policy is a key part of maintaining that atmosphere. Even high-profile golfers like Calcavecchia are not exempt from the rules, underscoring Augusta National's commitment to upholding its policies and protecting the sanctity of the tournament experience for all attendees.

The details

Calcavecchia, who won the 1989 Open Championship and played in 18 Masters tournaments, was reportedly escorted from the Augusta National property by security after being caught with a cell phone. Augusta National has a strict policy prohibiting patrons from bringing any cell phones or mobile devices onto the course, a rule that is consistently enforced throughout the tournament.

  • The incident occurred during the 2026 Masters tournament, which took place in early April.

The players

Mark Calcavecchia

The 1989 Open Championship winner who has played in 18 Masters tournaments, most recently in 2008.

Augusta National Golf Club

The exclusive golf club that hosts the annual Masters tournament, known for its traditional policies and strict enforcement of rules.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Mark Calcavecchia, Former major champion

What’s next

Calcavecchia will likely be allowed to return to Augusta National in the future, but he will need to ensure he leaves his cell phone behind next time.

The takeaway

The Masters' strict no-cell-phone policy is a key part of the tournament's exclusive and traditional culture, and even former major champions are not exempt from the rules. This incident serves as a reminder that Augusta National will firmly enforce its policies to maintain the sanctity of the event for all attendees.