Trending Now - Masters Tournament: a Celebration of Tradition and Equality

WHO:

CBS News Sports - Rory McIlroy, Irish golfer

The New York Times - Rip Hamilton, three-time NBA All-Star and world champion; Ryan Fitzpatrick, 17-year NFL veteran; Dwyane Wade, NBA legend; Niall Horan, Irish singer; Fernando Mendoza, prospective No. 1 NFL draft pick; Eli and Peyton Manning, Augusta National members; Travis Kelce, NFL player; American rapper ScHoolboy Q

WHAT:

CBS News Sports - Rory McIlroy ended the second round of the Masters on April 7th, 2026, six shots ahead of the field, marking the largest 36-hole lead in tournament history.

The New York Times - The Masters Tournament has a no-phone policy, which is maintained to enhance the spectator experience.

The New York Times - Dwyane Wade has attended the Masters as a patron every spring since 2021.

The New York Times - The Masters is described as the last large-scale event in America where celebrities and athletes can experience a common viewing environment without VIP privileges.

WHERE:

CBS News Sports - Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia

The New York Times - The Masters Tournament takes place at Augusta National Golf Club.

WHEN:

CBS News Sports - The second round of the Masters was completed on April 7th, 2026.

The New York Times - The Masters Tournament is held annually in April; the current event is taking place in April 2026.

WHY:

The New York Times - The no-phone policy at the Masters is intended to create a more engaging and human experience for attendees.

HOW:

The New York Times - Attendees must check their phones at the entrance or leave them in their cars to comply with the no-phone policy.

(UPDATED April 11, 2026 21:07 UTC)

Rory McIlroy made headlines at the Masters on Tuesday, finishing the second round six shots ahead of the competition, which sets a new record for the largest 36-hole lead in the tournament's history. The Masters, held annually at Augusta National Golf Club, maintains a no-phone policy to enhance the spectator experience, requiring attendees to check their phones at the entrance or leave them in their cars. Among the notable patrons this year are NBA legend Dwyane Wade, who has attended every spring since 2021, and a host of celebrities and athletes enjoying the event together without VIP privileges.