Cabrera's Emotional Victory Before Masters Return

Angel Cabrera, the 2009 Masters champion, secured his first strokeplay victory since being released from prison at the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational in Florida. The 55-year-old Argentine defeated KJ Choi by two strokes in this PGA Tour-sanctioned seniors event, demonstrating his resilient competitive spirit.

From Prison to the Fairways

Cabrera's journey back to professional golf has been extraordinary. After serving 30 months in South American prisons for assault and other charges, the two-time major winner (2007 US Open, 2009 Masters) hadn't touched a golf club for three years until his release in August 2023. His longtime coach Charlie Epps, 81, provided crucial support during this transition, stating "golf is all he has left."

Historic Return to Augusta

The victory comes just days before Cabrera's emotional return to Augusta National for the first time since 2019. Masters chairman Fred Ridley recently called Cabrera "one of our great champions" while acknowledging his past legal issues. Cabrera will participate in:

• The Champions Dinner (hosted by Ben Crenshaw)
• Tournament play via his lifetime Masters exemption
• Various ceremonial events

Reflections and Regrets

Cabrera has expressed remorse about his past actions, telling the Daily Mail: "I regret everything that I have done wrongly in my past." His June 2024 Legends Tour matchplay victory in England and this recent win suggest the veteran golfer still possesses championship quality.

The Road Ahead

While visa issues prevented Cabrera from competing in earlier Masters tournaments following his release, golf fans worldwide will watch his performance with great interest. His story represents one of the most remarkable comebacks in recent sports history, blending athletic achievement with personal redemption.