The 2025 Masters recently concluded, and Rory McIlroy finally completed his grand slam by clinching the trophy. But that’s not what we’re here to talk about. We’re here for something a little more unexpected—how one of Augusta National’s most bizarre traditions is actually what some people love the most. On The Masters YouTube series podcast, host Marty Smith sat down with NFL legend Trevor Lawrence, and their conversation took an interesting turn—straight into the heart of what makes Augusta so different.

For those who aren’t familiar with Augusta National, it’s a place with its own set of traditions. And while some of them seem downright odd to outsiders, Lawrence is all in on it. “Yeah, I mean, I think there’s not a bad place on the course,” he said, reflecting on the atmosphere. “Obviously Amen Corner is a special spot. That’s kind of where everybody goes, and that’s a cool little corner there. That’s awesome.”

But what really stuck with him wasn’t just the sights—it was the experience of being fully present.  “Just walking everywhere. I think it’s the big tree up by Clubhouse and by One. Seeing all the guys tee off. I think just not having to phone all day is such a cool thing,” he adds. Imagine that—no phones. At a time when everyone seems glued to their screens, Augusta National encourages you to disconnect from the digital world. And for Lawrence, that’s the magic.

“It’s cool for guys like me and other guys that are out here to be able to walk around and have interaction with the fans,” he said. “People will come up, shake your hands, say hey, and then kind of go on about their day.”  No pressure for selfies. No endless scrolling. Just pure, uninterrupted appreciation for the game—and for each other. As Lawrence points out, “Everyone’s here for the golf and to enjoy it and soak it up.”

For Lawrence, it’s not about headlines or VIP treatment. It’s about getting to be a fan in the truest sense—fully immersed, undistracted, and connected in the most human way possible. But this no-phone policy? It’s just one of many rules that make Augusta… well, Augusta. And some of them are even more surprising.

The unwritten etiquette behind golf’s most exclusive event

That no-phone policy? It’s just the beginning. The Masters isn’t just known for its pristine greens and iconic moments—it’s also home to a set of rules and traditions that are, frankly, unlike anything else in sports. Some make you smile, others might make you raise an eyebrow—but all of them contribute to the mystique that surrounds Augusta National.

For starters, the no-phones rule isn’t just a suggestion—it’s enforced with zero exceptions. As Trevor Lawrence mentioned, you can’t bring your phone—not even to check the time. While other sporting events have leaned into social media moments, Augusta demands total presence. Only security and select media are allowed their devices, and somehow, that quiet has become part of the event’s soul.

Then there’s the legendary “Chair Code. Bring a green Masters-issued folding chair, set it down anywhere on the course, and you can walk away with full confidence that no one will move it—or sit in it. It’s an unspoken pact among patrons. It’s Southern etiquette at its finest, turned into a sporting tradition.

Dress code? Yes, it’s serious business here. You won’t see loud jerseys or slogan tees here. Patrons are expected to dress modestly and respectfully. No running, no caps worn backward, and definitely no shouting anything like “Mashed potatoes!” after a shot. The Masters is as much about decorum as it is about driving distance.

Autographs during play? Not happening. While practice rounds offer opportunities for fans to interact with players, once the tournament begins, the focus shifts entirely to the game. It’s another rule that keeps the vibe refined and competitive.

And finally, perhaps the most exclusive rule of them all: membership. You can’t apply to become a member at Augusta National, you’re invited. The full membership list remains a closely guarded secret, but it’s known to include some of the most powerful people in the world—and very few women until recently.

Love them or hate them, these rules are part of what makes The Masters unlike any other sporting event. So now we’re curious—which Augusta tradition do you find the most bizarre? Let us know in the comments!