The Masters 2024: 5 Most Insane Rules of Augusta National Explored

Augusta National wears its tradition on its sleeve. It’s one of the few places that forces you to stay completely in the moment amid the organized chaos. If you have already booked your tickets to the Masters, you must know these rules before landing in Georgia. Some of them are rational, while others make the experience a little quirky.

For one, you’re not allowed to run at the Augusta National. Not even to catch players who you might think are leaving. Walk gently with your shoes on, because walking barefoot on the grass isn’t tolerated at Augusta National. Also, remember, you are not just a golf fan at the Masters; you are a patron. So, here are five rules you should strictly follow.

Don’t bring electronic devices to the Masters

Augusta has a strict policy on cell phones. Patrons aren’t allowed to bring them on the greens. Keep them at home or in your car. Also, don’t think of checking your cell phone at the gates; that might cause a lifetime ban. In fact, not just cell phones but any laptops, tablets, and beepers are not allowed.

Fitness tracking bands and electronic watches are permitted as long as you’re not using them to make calls or send data. You can also use cameras to take pictures during the practice rounds. There are payphones where you don’t have to pay to call anyone in the US. 

Thinking of scalping Masters tickets? DON’T

Planning to watch from home after buying a ticket because you can’t travel? Sad, but don’t think of cashing in on that. Also, don’t consider buying a third-party ticket. Augusta National Inc. is the only authorized seller of the Masters tickets and badges. While there are places where you can buy or sell tickets, Augusta has a strict policy that can even land you in jail.

The rule states, “Holders of tickets acquired from third parties, by whatever means, may be excluded from attendance at the tournament.“

Don’t bring food and coolers.

Patrons are not allowed to bring any homemade food to Augusta. But on the positive side, food and beverages are available at an affordable price at the checkstands. Sandwiches cost only $1.5–$3. You can get a cup of coffee for $1.5 and a domestic or imported beer for $5. Although beer sales stop after 4 p.m. on the main course.

Don’t wear a hat backward during the Masters

It looks dapper. A young Rickie Fowler, too, looked dapper in the 2011 Masters. But only for a while. Fowler was told to wear the cap properly after an official took notice of him. The rule is the same for patrons as well. 

Read More: The Masters: Top 5 Controversial Moments of All Time

Augusta National is an invite-only club

Want to be a member of the Hallowed Club? Great, just don’t go to the front desk asking for membership applications. Because they don’t exist. Augusta National is an invite-only club, and only a handful of guests receive the highly coveted invitation.

There is no confirmation of the total number of guests. Annika Sorenstam was the latest person to receive an invitation and the first LPGA Pro to have the honors. Former U.S. State Secretary Condoleezza Rice was the first woman to be inducted into the hallowed club. 

Furthermore, you can’t lie down on the greens of Augusta. In fact, the officials warn you to sit straight if you move back too far while resting on the hills near the tee box on the 6th. Also, don’t go chasing the golfers for autographs; that’s also not allowed.

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