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The Woodlands Today
By the People, for the People
Former British Open Champ Kicked Out of Masters for Phone Use
Mark Calcavecchia was removed from Augusta National Golf Club grounds for violating the tournament's strict no-phone policy.
Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:51am
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The Masters' strict enforcement of its no-phone policy, even for major champions, reflects the tournament's commitment to tradition and exclusivity.The Woodlands Today1989 British Open champion Mark Calcavecchia was kicked out of the 2026 Masters tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on Tuesday for using his phone on the grounds, a violation of the tournament's strict no-phone policy. Calcavecchia, who played in the Masters 18 times and finished as the runner-up in 1988, did not deny the incident when contacted by Golfweek, but declined to comment further.
Why it matters
The Masters is known for its stringent rules and regulations, including a ban on cell phone use anywhere on the grounds. This incident highlights how even major champions are not exempt from being removed for breaking these rules, which are strictly enforced to maintain the tournament's exclusive and traditional atmosphere.
The details
Calcavecchia was taken out of Augusta National by security on Tuesday for using his phone, though the full details of the situation are unclear. When contacted by Golfweek, Calcavecchia did not deny the incident but declined to comment further, saying he had 'nothing negative to say' about Augusta National or the Masters.
- Calcavecchia was kicked out of Augusta National on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
The players
Mark Calcavecchia
A 13-time PGA Tour winner who won the 1989 British Open and played in the Masters tournament 18 times, finishing as the runner-up in 1988.
Augusta National Golf Club
The host of the annual Masters tournament, known for its strict rules and regulations, including a ban on cell phone use anywhere on the grounds.
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
The takeaway
The Masters' unwavering enforcement of its no-phone policy, even for major champions like Calcavecchia, underscores the tournament's commitment to maintaining its exclusive and traditional atmosphere. This incident serves as a reminder that no one is above the rules at Augusta National.
