8 Strict Rules Masters Tournament Patrons Must Follow While Watching Their Favorite Golfers

Andrew Redington/Getty Jason Day of Australia plays his shot from the seventh tee during the first round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 10, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia.

Andrew Redington/Getty

Jason Day of Australia plays his shot from the seventh tee during the first round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 10, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia.

Attending the Masters Tournament in Augusta, Ga., is a golf enthusiast's dream.

Established in 1934, the Masters takes place at the Augusta National Golf Club — founded by legendary amateur golfer Bobby Jones and investment banker Clifford Roberts.

Augusta National is the nation's most exclusive golf club. Its list of roughly 300 members is confidential for privacy purposes. Still, the Augusta National Golf Club opens its gates to the public once a year for the Masters Tournament in April.

An estimated 40,000 patrons flock to Georgia to walk the meticulously manicured fairways. Tickets are awarded via a lottery system and it comes with a strict set of rules that are part of the iconic event's charm.

Augusta National has a zero-tolerance policy on cell phones, and the dress code is particular. Even the broadcasters have guidelines when covering the event. Augusta National prefers that news outlets refer to attendees as "patrons," not "fans," and reporters use phrases like the "Golf Club" instead of the "Country Club."

A violation of Masters policies could result in one of three things: eviction from the grounds, loss of credentials or a lifetime ban from Augusta National.

So what are the dos and don'ts when attending the prestigious annual golf event? Here's everything to know about some of the Masters Tournament rules.

There’s a strict dress code

Richard Heathcote/Getty Collin Morikawa of the United States plays his second shot on the fifth hole during the first round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 10, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia.

Richard Heathcote/Getty

Collin Morikawa of the United States plays his second shot on the fifth hole during the first round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 10, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia.

Many come dressed to impress at the Masters, but the dress code is notoriously strict — so much so that there's an official "Fashion at the Masters" Pinterest board.

As an attendee, golf shoes with metal spikes or footwear with a pointed heel are prohibited. This rule is in place to maintain the grounds, according to the event's website.

Meanwhile, wearing baseball caps backward is considered a rude ...

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