Golfers face criticism for smartphone use disrupting course etiquette

Increased mobile phone usage on golf courses is drawing scrutiny for disrupting play and undermining traditional course etiquette. A report from Golf Monthly highlights a trend where players remain tethered to their devices throughout a round rather than engaging with the game or surroundings. This shift often forces groups to slow down, negatively impacting the flow of play and the experiences of other participants. While some use phones for GPS-related functions, constant checking and social media scrolling are frequently cited as the primary distractions. Experts suggest that failure to manage this behavior risks altering the game’s culture, potentially prompting golf clubs to implement stricter policies to restore focus and safety on the fairways.

• 4:45 PMYahoo Sports — Golfers Ignore Course Etiquette As Phones Dominate Play