When Masters officials say no cellphones, they mean it.
And that is just what golfer Mark Calcavecchia found out Tuesday.
Calcavecchia, the winner of the 1989 Open Championship, was removed by Augusta National Golf Club security for using his phone.
Calcavecchia spoke to Golfweek. The golfer didn’t deny taking his phone out on the grounds, which is automatic dismissal.
“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 said.
Calcavecchia, 65, isn’t a previous Masters winner, but has played in the event 18 times during his career from 1987-2008. He finished in second place in 1988.
Calcavecchia was able to play in the Masters because he had won the three other majors. Those players receive a five-year exempt invitation to play in the Masters. Then they become “honorary invitees” for life.
The rule prohibiting cellphones is on the Masters official website.
“The use of any device for phone calls, emails, text messaging, or to record and/or transmit voice, video or data is strictly prohibited,” per the website.
Augusta National does provide phone service on the grounds. Designated phone banks are found on the course if someone needs to make a call.
