Mark Calcavecchia Ejected from Masters Tournament for Phone Use

The 1989 British Open champion was removed from Augusta National after violating the event's strict no-phone policy.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:13pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented golf tournament scene with overlapping planes of green fairways, white bunkers, and silhouetted players, conceptually representing the disruption caused by a player's phone use at the prestigious event.The Masters Tournament's strict enforcement of its no-phone policy reflects the event's commitment to preserving its traditional atmosphere and focus on the competition.Augusta Today

Mark Calcavecchia, the 1989 British Open champion, was ejected from the 90th Masters golf tournament at Augusta National Golf Club for violating the event's strict policy prohibiting the use of mobile phones on the grounds. Tournament officials said Calcavecchia was repeatedly seen using his phone, despite multiple warnings, in an effort to maintain the traditional atmosphere at the prestigious annual event.

Why it matters

The Masters is one of golf's most prestigious and historic tournaments, known for its adherence to tradition and decorum. The no-phone policy is strictly enforced to preserve the serene environment and focus on the competition. Calcavecchia's ejection highlights the tournament organizers' commitment to upholding these longstanding rules, even for a former major champion.

The details

According to tournament officials, Calcavecchia was seen using his mobile phone on multiple occasions during the first round of play at Augusta National. Despite being warned several times to put his phone away, Calcavecchia continued to violate the policy, leading to his eventual removal from the grounds.

  • The incident occurred during the first round of play at the 90th Masters tournament on April 8, 2026.

The players

Mark Calcavecchia

A 1989 British Open champion and veteran PGA Tour player who was competing in the 90th Masters tournament.

Augusta National Golf Club

The prestigious golf course that hosts the annual Masters Tournament, known for its strict adherence to tradition and rules.

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What they’re saying

“We maintain a traditional atmosphere at the Masters, and that includes a strict no-phone policy on the grounds. Unfortunately, Mr. Calcavecchia was unable to adhere to that policy, despite multiple warnings, and we had no choice but to remove him from the tournament.”

— Tournament Official

The takeaway

The Masters Tournament's commitment to upholding its longstanding rules and traditions, even for high-profile players, underscores the event's enduring status as one of golf's most prestigious and exclusive competitions.