One of the most widely debated aspects of the iconic Masters Tournament is the popular event’s approach to fans using cell phones. The Masters has a ban on all cell phones, an approach that allows fans to be in the moment and essentially ensures they don’t miss any action.
The final round of the 2025 Masters on Sunday, April 13, was a perfect reminder of why the event is phone-free. During Rory McIlroy’s iconic victory, the final leg he needed to become one of six golfers to win all four major championships, there was no shortage of drama.
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While McIlroy managed to fend off a stellar day from Justin Rose, defeating him in a sudden death playoff, the 35-year-old avoided disaster on numerous occasions.
The environment was incredible, and after the event, former golf pro, instructor and model, Paige Spiranac offered a strong take on cell phone bans — citing the belief that this should extend beyond golf.
As Spiranac explained, the reaction to McIlroy’s victory and witnessing fans living in the moment was a unique and incredible sight.
The photos from the 2025 Masters Tournament immediately after McIlroy’s victory-clinching putt tell the story, and it’s easy to see the impact on a cell phone-free crowd.
Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland celebrates winning the 2025 Masters Tournament after the first playoff hole at Augusta National Golf Club.
Andrew Redington/Getty Images
While it’s unlikely that this will play out across the sports world, it would make for an incredible sight. Although fans are still reliving the moment of McIlroy’s win, the great cell phone debate is bound to continue to ramp back up every year around the start of the Masters.
Related: Adam Sandler Went Full ‘Happy Gilmore’ With Rory McIlroy Message After Masters Victory
