The Masters is always one of the highlights on the sporting calendar, but this year’s tournament was even more special than usual.
There were so many twists and turns throughout the week, not least Rory McIlroy bouncing back from four double bogeys to win the Green Jacket.
But it’s not just the world-class golfers who make The Masters stand out. It’s also the incredible venue, Augusta National, and some of their unique traditions.
Indeed, many golf fans pointed out that one rule in particular makes for a better experience than any other event.
Golf fans want all sporting events to copy one rule at The Masters
The Masters occasionally budge on their old-fashioned ways, but, for the most part, McIlroy won the same event that Jack Nicklaus first won in the 1960s.
One thing which hasn’t changed over the years is Augusta National’s no-phone policy. Of course, patrons can still take their phones with them to the premises, but they must be left at the entrance gates.
This means that spectators are focused on the play and soaking in the atmosphere rather than taking photos or filming videos.
It also creates great tension when the on-course leaderboards are manually changed. There were plenty of cheers and groans when McIlroy made birdies and bogeys on Sunday.
Famous YouTuber Paige Spiranac posted on X: “Hot take, but I wish all sporting events banned phones. It was so special to see everyone enjoying the moment and being present.”
A golf fan commented: “The no cell phone policy is still one of the best things about the Masters. Love seeing the fans just enjoying the moment.”
“Call me old school but watching The Masters and man, does it make a big difference to ban cell phones,” another wrote.
Meanwhile, someone suggested that the rule should be implemented at other events in sports, music and more.
“No phones at The Masters is something we need to normalise across everything, including sports games, concerts, firework shows, meeting your favourite people and sunsets.”
WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark says no phone policy makes The Masters ‘so unique’
WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark was one of many celebrities in attendance at The Masters last week, and she sat down for an interview at Augusta National.
She knows what it’s like to compete in packed-out arenas with thousands of fans with phones in their hands, and said she much prefers The Masters way.
“I think it’s just so different to everything else. There’s really just nothing like this. I think the aspect of not having your phone is so unique. You can tell everyone is so invested, and they’re just there to watch the greatness of the athletes.
“Even the golfers talking about it after their rounds feel a different level of engagement from the fans and how invested they are.
“You’re really just living in the moment. As a professional athlete, you can empathize with that, and I think that’s really cool.”
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