Angel Cabrera Returns to Augusta National After Six-Year Absence Following Prison Release

Posted : 07 April 2025

Angel Cabrera, the Argentine golfer who triumphed at the 2009 Masters, returns to Augusta National this week for the first time in six years following his release from prison. Cabrera, who also claimed the 2007 US Open title, had been serving a prison sentence after being convicted of assault, theft, and illegal intimidation against former partners.

After spending 30 months in South American prisons, Cabrera was released in August 2023. Although he was granted a lifetime exemption to play in the Masters, he missed the 2024 tournament due to visa issues, making this return all the more significant.

Masters chairman Fred Ridley praised Cabrera before the 2024 event, describing him as "one of our great champions" and acknowledging his absence from the tournament in recent years due to legal troubles. Ridley expressed hope that Cabrera would be able to resolve his legal matters and return to the prestigious competition.

Cabrera, who had not touched a golf club in three years, was given a set of clubs by his long-time coach Charlie Epps upon his release. Epps, who has supported Cabrera throughout his career, said that golf was "all he has left."

Since his release, Cabrera has made a successful return to competitive golf, securing his first strokeplay title since freedom at the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational in Florida. The 55-year-old also won a matchplay event in England in June 2024.

Reflecting on his victory, Cabrera expressed his emotional gratitude after overcoming significant personal and legal challenges. His return to the Masters, alongside his participation in the Champions Dinner, marks a major moment in his comeback to the sport.

Cabrera’s journey back to Augusta has been marked by a troubled past. After being arrested in Rio de Janeiro in January 2021, Cabrera faced charges related to domestic violence. He had been on the run in Argentina before his arrest in Brazil, where he was extradited to face trial.

Cabrera was convicted of assault in 2021 and sentenced to two years in prison, with an additional sentence handed down for a second assault in 2022. Reflecting on his past mistakes, Cabrera has expressed regret, acknowledging the harm caused and the lost years of his life due to his actions.

Angel Cabrera Returns to Augusta National After Six-Year Absence Following Prison Release

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