Augusta National's uncompromising stance on mobile phones makes no exceptions, as major winner Mark Calcavecchia discovered on Tuesday.

The 1989 Open champion was removed from Augusta National after being caught using his mobile phone on the grounds during a practice round. The club has prohibited patrons from carrying phones and similar devices anywhere on the course since such technology became widespread.

Augusta National states it enforces the policy "to maintain a traditional atmosphere," and the patron guide on its website reads: "Part of what makes the Masters such a unique environment is the lack of cell phones on the grounds."

Calcavecchia, who competed in the Masters on 18 occasions and finished runner-up in 1988, was undoubtedly familiar with the policy, yet Golfweek reports that the 65 year old was caught in the act and escorted off the premises.

"I've got nothing negative to say about Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters, so I think we should literally hang up right now," Calcavecchia said during a brief telephone conversation when questioned about the incident.

There are precious few areas at Augusta National where mobile phones are permitted. Members of the press may use their devices within the media centre, but must leave them at their desks before venturing onto the course or attending a press conference.

Calcavecchia was attending the 90th Masters as a guest of Augusta National, which extends invitations to major champions from previous eras, though Greg Norman was overlooked once more - a decision that left the former LIV Golf chief incensed.

Other prominent figures have run afoul of the policy previously. Charlie Rymer, formerly of Golf Channel, was working for Westwood One in 2011 when his credential was withdrawn for stepping outside the media centre to answer a call. A tearful apology failed to reverse his situation.

Former major champion Keegan Bradley's sister was also discovered with a phone in her possession one year, but she was granted clemency after breaking down in tears.

He said at the time: "They were going to kick her out and she cried, and they let her put her phone in a safe and stay."

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, the bookmakers' favourite to triumph this week, supports the policy. He said: "Very peaceful. There are no people asking for selfies in the middle of the round. It's very calm out there, and people follow the rules here. For us as players, it's really an enjoyable experience."

Ludvig Aberg concurs. He said: "It feels like the fans are a little bit more engaged in the golf. They're a little bit more attuned to what's going on. It's a cool environment to play. It feels like good golf shots are being appreciated, in a different way."