Man Arrested At Augusta National Days Before The Masters

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Apr 9, 2026 10:32 AM ET

A 36-year-old man from South Carolina is facing criminal charges for trespassing at the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club days ahead of the Masters.

According to WJBF in Augusta, Matthew Stroud was arrested and charged with criminal trespassing on Monday for repeatedly showing up to the course and pestering patrons as they tried to exit the premises. Though he initially left with a warning, he later returned and was arrested.

"According to a citation filed against Stroud, he 'refused to leave Masters property even after being told to leave multiple times by GBI Agents,'" the outlet reported. "He was arrested at 2600 Washington Road near the Magnolia Lane entrance to the Augusta National Golf Club. He was booked into Charles B. Webster Detention Center."

36-year-old Matthew Stroud, of Easley, was arrested Monday for a single charge of trespassing after being asked to leave Augusta National Golf Club Property. https://t.co/QCAmo6Jsf3 pic.twitter.com/5JkqIWivGa
— WSPA 7NEWS (@WSPA7) April 8, 2026

Later, The Augusta Press reported that Stroud was intoxicated at the time of his arrest and has since been released on a $285 bond.

"According to Richmond County Sheriff’s Capt. Scott Gay, Stroud initially left the area when instructed to do so, but later returned and continued the behavior. When he refused to leave a second time, deputies arrested him for criminal trespassing," the outlet reported.

Andrew Redington/Getty Images

The Masters

Anticipation is building around what promises to be a competitive and intriguing major championship despite the absence of some legends of the game like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson. The field includes defending champion Rory McIlroy returning to try to defend his Green Jacket after completing the career Grand Slam in 2025.

Scottie Scheffler boasts the top odds entering the week, followed by Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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