Angel Cabrera made his return to U.S. soil for the first time in nearly four years, hitting the greens at the PGA Tour Champions’ American Family Insurance Championship in Madison, Wisconsin. It was a significant moment for the 54-year-old golfer, who recently finished serving a 30-month prison sentence in Argentina.
On Friday, Cabrera shot a 1-over 73 at University Ridge Golf Course, placing him tied for 43rd, five shots off the lead after the first 18 holes. This marked his first competitive round in the U.S. since September 2020. Cabrera had only recently been granted a visa to participate in U.S. events after his release from prison last August.
Cabrera expressed his mixed emotions about the game through an interpreter, saying, ‘I feel good. I like to play golf. I hit some really good shots, I missed some easy shots, but in general I feel pretty good on the course and with the people I played with.’ Cabrera partnered with fellow golfers Scott McCarron and Scott Dunlap during the round.
His absence from the U.S. golfing scene began in January 2021, when Cabrera was arrested in Brazil and extradited to Argentina. He was convicted of charges including assault, theft, and legal intimidation against former partners Cecilia Torres Mana and Micaela Escudero. Reflecting on his past actions, Cabrera admitted, ‘I refused to listen to anyone and did what I wanted, how I wanted and when I wanted. That was wrong. I ask Micaela for forgiveness. I ask Cecilia for forgiveness. They had the bad luck of being with me when I was at my worst. I wasn’t the devil, but I did bad things. I am deeply embarrassed because I disappointed the people closest to me – and everyone who loves me through golf. Golf gave me everything, and I know I will never be able to repay the debt I owe this sport.’
During his time in prison, Cabrera took steps to improve his life. He went back to school and began treatment for alcohol addiction. His personal life saw significant changes as well; his current partner, Yamila Alvarez, gave birth to their son in December 2022. The couple married last October.
Cabrera was reinstated by the PGA Tour last December but had been competing in international events until now, such as the KFT’s Argentina Open and PGA Tour Champions’ Trophee Hassan II. He missed the Masters Tournament last April due to visa issues and hasn’t played the event since 2019.
Looking ahead, Cabrera is expected to compete in the Dick’s Sporting Goods Open next week in Endicott, New York. Like this week, he will start on the alternate list unless granted a sponsor exemption. ‘Yes, yes, it’s a new beginning,’ Cabrera said about his future in golf. ‘It’s a great future ahead.’
Cabrera’s return to the U.S. golf scene marks a new chapter for the golfer, who seems determined to make the most of his second chance. His journey from a prison cell back to the fairways shows a profound transformation, both personally and professionally. Only time will tell how this new beginning unfolds for him.
Source: Nbcsports
