Why has Augusta National banned media personalities?

Augusta National has banned media personalities for making "smartass" or off-color remarks on air, as well as for comments made about patrons or course conditions.

Who are some TV personalities banned from Augusta National?

Kenny Mayne, Jack Whitaker, and Gary McCord are among the TV personalities who have been banned from Augusta National.

What are the rules for Masters winners regarding the Green Jacket?

Masters winners are not allowed to wear their Green Jacket off Augusta National property, with the current winner able to take it home only if they return it the following year.

Home / Sports / Augusta National Bans Talent Over "Smartass" Remarks

Augusta National Bans Talent Over "Smartass" Remarks

17 Feb

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Summary

Augusta National enforces strict rules for broadcasters, patrons, and winners.
TV personalities have been banned for comments dating back to 1966.
Masters winners must return their Green Jacket annually.

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."