Tiger Woods is in the Masters field. But one controversial past champion is not.

Tiger Woods’ presence in the 2024 Masters field, announced by the Augusta National Golf Club this week, has stirred both anticipation and skepticism. While his five green jackets and past champion status make his inclusion unsurprising, concerns linger over his readiness for the prestigious event. Despite less than three weeks until the Masters, Woods has had limited appearances on the course this season, withdrawing from the Genesis Invitational last month due to illness and skipping the Players Championship.

Woods’ 2023 season was marred by ankle surgery following the Masters, where he made the cut but withdrew during the weekend. His track record over the past four years reflects struggles with injuries and inconsistency, completing all four rounds of a tournament only twice. While his presence in the field doesn’t guarantee participation, especially considering his pledge to play once a month in 2024, it does offer hope for his supporters.

On the flip side, one glaring absence from the Masters lineup is Angel Cabrera, the controversial past champion. At 54, Cabrera’s legal troubles stemming from assault allegations by his former partner, Cecilia Torres Mana, have cast a shadow over his career. In July 2021, an Argentine court convicted him of assault, harassment, and threats against Torres Mana, leading to his arrest in Rio de Janeiro. Despite being released in August, visa complications have persisted, preventing his participation in the 2024 Masters, despite being reinstated by the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions in December.

While Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley had expressed openness to Cabrera’s return if visa issues were resolved, his agent confirmed that obstacles remain unresolved, dashing hopes for his Masters comeback. With the tournament scheduled to begin on April 11, all eyes will be on Jon Rahm as he defends his title as the reigning champion.