Augusta National Bans Talent Over "Smartass" Remarks

Augusta National Golf Club maintains a tight ship, imposing strict regulations not only on its patrons but also on the broadcast talent covering The Masters. Kenny Mayne, a former ESPN anchor, revealed he believes he is banned for life from the club due to a "smartass" comment made on air years ago. He recounted an incident where Augusta National personnel contacted the ESPN truck directly to prevent his attendance.

This practice of banning broadcast personalities is not new, with a history stretching back 60 years. In 1966, CBS's Jack Whitaker was banned for referring to the patrons as "the mob." Similarly, Gary McCord faced repercussions in 1994 for a comment about the greens being "bikini waxed."

The strict rules extend beyond media personnel. Masters champions themselves are forbidden from taking their Green Jacket off the property, with the current winner only permitted to wear it at home if returned the following year. Patrons also adhere to a rigorous dress code, and banned items include cell phones and laptops, requiring the use of courtesy phones for calls.

Even a patron attempting to take a cup of sand as a souvenir in 2012 led to arrest and significant financial penalties, highlighting Augusta National's unwavering enforcement of its rules.