Major champion Mark Calcavecchia faced removal from Augusta National Golf Club just before the Masters tournament after breaching the venue’s strict no-phone policy.
Enforcement of Augusta National’s Rules
Augusta National maintains rigorous regulations, prohibiting cell phones, tablets, and laptops on its grounds. This rule applies to everyone, including the 1989 Open Championship winner Calcavecchia. Security personnel escorted the 65-year-old golfer off the premises on Tuesday after spotting him using his phone.
Calcavecchia’s Masters Legacy
Calcavecchia competed in the Masters 18 times from 1987 to 2008, achieving his best result with a second-place finish in 1988. His 1989 Open victory granted him honorary invitee status, yet officials upheld the policy without exception this week.
Addressing the incident, Calcavecchia stated: “I’ve got nothing negative to say about Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters.”
Policy Details and Alternatives
Visitors have access to courtesy phone banks on the grounds. Officials emphasize that the cell phone ban contributes to the tournament’s distinctive atmosphere. The official policy warns: “Violation of these policies will subject the ticket holder to removal from the grounds and the ticket purchaser to the permanent loss of credentials (tickets).”
Not an Isolated Incident
Calcavecchia is not alone in encountering enforcement. Former U.S. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley shared that his sister once faced ejection from the clubhouse for having a phone. She resolved the situation by placing her device in a safe after becoming emotional, allowing her to remain.
