Angel Cabrera returned to professional golf on Friday with a 1-over 73 in his first round at the American Family Insurance Championship in Madison. After serving time in prison for gender violence, Cabrera expressed gratitude for the opportunity to resume his golf career on the PGA Tour Champions with a sponsor exemption for the event. Playing alongside Scott McCarron and Scott Dunlap, Cabrera had a mixed round but finished strong with two birdies in his final seven holes.
The 54-year-old Cabrera was released from prison in August 2023 but faced challenges in obtaining a visa to play in the U.S. until late May. Despite his past legal troubles, including charges of assault and theft from former partners, Cabrera is focused on making a fresh start and looking ahead to a positive future in golf. He expressed appreciation for American Family for the sponsor exemption and the opportunity to play in the tournament.
Cabrera’s return to the U.S. marked the end of a nearly four-year absence from professional golf, which began with his arrest in Brazil in 2021. His unauthorized trips to the U.S. in 2020 and 2021 led to legal issues and an Interpol warrant for his arrest. Reflecting on his past mistakes and poor decisions, Cabrera acknowledged the harm he caused to his former partners and expressed regret for his actions.
During his time in prison, Cabrera had a son with his partner Yamila Alvarez, whom he later married in October 2023. The PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions lifted his suspension in December 2023, allowing him to compete in professional golf again. Despite setbacks in trying to obtain a temporary visa for the Masters in April, Cabrera has continued to play in various tournaments around the world to rebuild his career.
Cabrera’s success in golf includes winning the 2007 U.S. Open and the 2009 Masters Tournament, showcasing his talent and skill on the course. As he navigates his return to competitive golf and works to rebuild his reputation, Cabrera is focused on improving his game and making the most of the opportunities he has been given. With a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude, Cabrera is determined to move forward and make a positive impact on the golf community.
