Augusta National's decision to invite Ángel Cabrera, a past Masters champion with a history of domestic violence convictions, to compete in the 2025 Masters Tournament has generated significant controversy. While Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley stated that Cabrera had served his sentence, the decision has been met with criticism from various quarters.
Cabrera's past includes a 30-month prison sentence for domestic violence involving multiple ex-partners. However, since his release, he has expressed remorse, apologized, and continued his professional golf career. He recently won the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational.
Augusta National maintains that while they abhor domestic violence, they are not contractually or morally obligated to exclude past champions. The club declined to comment further on any specific policies regarding the exclusion of past champions.
The decision has sparked a debate, with some supporting Cabrera's right to compete after serving his time and others arguing that his actions disqualify him from such an honor. The response from broadcast partners remains to be seen.
Cabrera expressed respect for differing opinions and stated his desire to make the most of his second chance. He briefly addressed his past mistakes and his commitment to doing better in the future.