Angel Cabrera Returns to Masters After 30 Months in Prison

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Angel Cabrera, the 2009 Masters champion, is set to make his return to Augusta National Golf Club for the 2025 Masters Tournament, starting April 10, after spending 30 months in prison for assault and intimidation against two former partners.

Cabrera, 55, was released from prison in August 2023, marking his first appearance at the prestigious tournament since 2018. His absence in 2024 was due to a visa issue, but the former golfer is now ready for his comeback on one of golf’s grandest stages.

The Argentine golfer expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to compete again. “Right now, I’m fine, but I regret everything that I have done wrongly in my past,” Cabrera told the Daily Mail. “I am also frustrated that I dumped very, very important years of my life. I made mistakes. It is one of the worst things that can happen to a human being, not being able to have freedom.”

His legal troubles began in 2016 when allegations of domestic abuse surfaced from his ex-wife and former girlfriends. In January 2021, Cabrera was arrested in Brazil after failing to appear for a court date in Argentina. He faced multiple charges, leading to his conviction and subsequent prison sentence.

Following his release, Cabrera acknowledged his past errors and expressed remorse for his actions. “I am repentant and embarrassed,” he told Luis Fernando Llosa. “I ask Micaela for forgiveness. I ask Celia for forgiveness. They had the bad luck of crossing paths with me when I was at my worst.”

Masters chairman Fred Ridley stated that Cabrera is welcome back at the event due to his previous accomplishments. “Angel certainly is one of our great champions,” Ridley said. Cabrera’s return has sparked discussions about whether individuals with criminal convictions should participate in prestigious sports events.

Despite the controversies surrounding his return, Cabrera remains focused on making the most of his “second chance.” He reflected on his time in prison, noting that it was a difficult experience but one that provided him with perspective. “The lack of freedom is really hard,” Cabrera said. “But I feel the most important thing right now is the opportunity to get back on the right track.”

As Cabrera prepares for the Masters, he looks forward to reconnecting with a community that has largely supported him, despite the challenges. “It gives me great joy to be going back,” he said, recalling his memories from 2009 when he won the green jacket. “It is a special place that gave me a lot of great moments and happiness in my golf career.”