Mark Calcavecchia Escorted from the Masters for Cell Phone Use
AUGUSTA, Ga. – The Masters Tournament’s famously strict no-phone policy applies to everyone, even major champions. This became abundantly clear on Tuesday when Mark Calcavecchia, the 1989 British Open winner, was removed from Augusta National Golf Club by security for using his cell phone.
The Masters’ policy is unwavering. Winners of the other three major championships in men’s golf receive a five-year exemption, transitioning to “honorary invitee” status thereafter. Calcavecchia, 65, is a veteran of the Masters, having competed 18 times between 1987 and 2008, with a notable second-place finish in 1988. His long history with the tournament didn’t grant him exemption from the rules.
A Brief Encounter and a Quick Exit
When contacted by phone to discuss the incident, Calcavecchia was remarkably tight-lipped. He offered no specifics but also didn’t deny the event took place. “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,” he stated before promptly ending the call.
Augusta National partners with AT&T, providing patrons with access to phones for calls on the course. However, personal cell phones, laptops, tablets, and pagers are strictly prohibited. This policy is in place “to maintain a traditional atmosphere,” a cornerstone of the Masters experience. Violations result in immediate expulsion and ticket forfeiture.
Not the First Incident
Calcavecchia isn’t the first prominent figure to fall afoul of the Masters’ cell phone rule. In 2011, former Golf Channel broadcaster Charlie Rymer had his media credential revoked and was asked to leave after being spotted using his phone outside the media center. An Augusta National spokesperson confirmed at the time, “We explained to him our policy, how we take it very seriously and we sent him home.” Rymer’s emotional reaction – reportedly tears – wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
Keegan Bradley shared a story with Golfweek about his sister being caught with a phone in the clubhouse. However, her tears proved more persuasive. “They were going to kick her out and she cried, and they let her put her phone in a safe and stay,” Bradley recalled. Unfortunately for Calcavecchia, such leniency wasn’t extended to a past major champion.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Augusta National Golf Club had not responded to requests for comment regarding the Calcavecchia incident. This incident underscores the unwavering commitment to tradition and the strict enforcement of rules at the prestigious Masters Tournament. You can find more information about the Masters Tournament on their official website.
