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The Masters’ no phone policy does not discriminate, even if you are a former major golf champion.
Mark Calcavecchia, the winner of the 1989 Open Championship, was reportedly removed by Augusta National Golf Club security for using his phone this week at the Masters.
Golfweek spoke to Calcavecchia, who did not deny that he took out his phone on the spot, which is automatic dismissal.
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Mark Calcavecchia of the United States plays his shot from the ninth tee during the continuation of round one on day two of the Insperity Invitational at The Woodlands Golf Club in The Woodlands, Texas, on May 3, 2025. (Raj Mehta/Getty Images)
“I have nothing negative to say about Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters, so I think we have to literally hang up right now,” he said.
Although Calcavecchia, 65, is not a former Masters winner, he played in the event 18 times during his career from 1987-2008. He even finished second in 1988.
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Winners of the other three majors like Calcavecchia get a five-year exempt invitation to play in the Masters, and then they become “honorary invitees” for life.
But the rules are the rules, especially at Augusta National. No one is above the law on the premises, and that’s what Masters’ official website says when it comes to mobile phones.
Mark Calcavecchia plays his shot from the fourth tee during the first round of the Boeing Classic at The Club at Snoqualmie Ridge in Snoqualmie, Wash., on August 9, 2024. (Alika Jenner/Getty Images)
“The use of any device for phone calls, emails, text messages or to record and/or transmit voice, video or data is strictly prohibited,” the website states.
Augusta National offers telephone service on the grounds. Designated phone banks, where AT&T provides service as a “master partner” with Masters, are on the field to make phone calls if needed.
Any other technological form of communication is strictly prohibited and Calcavecchia is paying the price.
Mark Calcavecchia of the United States plays his shot from the ninth tee during the continuation of round one on day two of the 2025 Insperity Invitational at The Woodlands Golf Club in The Woodlands, Texas, on May 3, 2025. (Raj Mehta/Getty Images)
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It’s the unfortunate reality for some who don’t play by the rules, but the Masters is all about logging out and living in the moment, which adds to the wonder and mystery that is the first major of the golf season.
