Angel Cabrera Set for 21st Masters Appearance After Legal Troubles

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Ángel Cabrera, the 2009 Masters champion, is set to make his 21st appearance at Augusta National in 2025 after overcoming significant legal challenges. Cabrera last participated in the Masters in 2019 and faced a tumultuous journey that led to his imprisonment in Brazil for over two years.

Following his last appearance in 2019, Cabrera faced a series of legal troubles stemming from offenses dating back to 2016, which culminated in his arrest in 2021. He served time in various prisons, including Brazil’s Placido de Sa Carvalho and Argentina’s infamous Carcel de Bouwer, often referred to as ‘The Prison From Hell.’

In a recent interview, Cabrera reflected on his time in prison, stating, “The environment was relatively okay due to the older, educated inmates around me. It wasn’t as dangerous as it sounds.” His release in August 2023 marked the beginning of his return to competitive golf.

Excited about returning to the Masters, Cabrera aimed to play in 2024 but was sidelined due to visa issues. As the 2025 Masters approaches, he has secured the necessary documentation and is ready to compete. “It’s the place every single golfer wants to be,” Cabrera said, expressing his regret for past mistakes. “I regret everything that I have done wrongly in my past and feel frustration about the time lost.”

Although he faced multiple challenges, Cabrera has shown resilience in his performances on the PGA Tour Champions, achieving notable finishes, including a tie for fifth at the Senior Open Championship and a strong showing at the SAS Championship.

Cabrera became the first South American to win the Masters in 2009 after a dramatic playoff against Chad Campbell and Kenny Perry. “Right now, I’m fine. I have a second chance, and I intend to seize it,” he said, underscoring his resolve to make a comeback.

As Cabrera prepares for his storied return to Augusta, the golf community is watching closely, anticipating how his past will influence his performance on the prestigious course.