Former Champ Booted From Masters Over Phone Rule

Security removed Mark Calcavecchia from Augusta National for violating strict no-phone policy

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:30pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a golfer's swing deconstructed into overlapping planes of green, tan, and blue, conceptually representing the Masters' strict enforcement of its traditional rules.The Masters' legendary no-phone policy forces even renowned former champions to abide by its exclusive traditions.Augusta Today

Former British Open champion Mark Calcavecchia, 65, was escorted out of the Masters tournament in Augusta, Georgia on Tuesday after he was spotted using his phone on the grounds, violating the event's strict no-phone policy. Calcavecchia was an honorary guest at this year's Masters festivities but was not a participant in the tournament.

Why it matters

The Masters is known for its stringent rules and traditions, including a ban on mobile phones that is strictly enforced. This incident highlights how the tournament maintains its exclusive atmosphere and high-end experience for patrons, even for renowned golfers like Calcavecchia who are no longer active competitors.

The details

Security personnel at Augusta National Golf Club removed Calcavecchia from the premises after he was seen using his mobile phone, which is strictly prohibited for all guests at the Masters tournament. Calcavecchia, who won the 1989 British Open, was an honorary invitee to this year's Masters festivities but was not playing in the actual tournament.

  • Calcavecchia was escorted out of Augusta National on Tuesday, April 9, 2026.

The players

Mark Calcavecchia

A 65-year-old former professional golfer who won the 1989 British Open and numerous other PGA Tour events during his career.

Augusta National Golf Club

The private golf club that hosts the annual Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia, known for its strict rules and traditions.

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The takeaway

The Masters' unwavering commitment to its longstanding policies, even for high-profile former champions, underscores the tournament's exclusive and traditional nature, which organizers work hard to preserve for the benefit of patrons and the sport's legacy.