Without confirming Cabrera was ever suspended – the PGA Tour does not publicise conduct violations – a tour spokesman confirmed the Argentine is eligible to play.

Cabrera, who won the U.S Open in 2007 and the Masters in a play-off in 2009, was imprisoned for two years for threats and harassment of Cecilia Torres Mana, his partner of two years. Her case was joined by that of another former partner, Micaela Escudero.

In a lengthy interview with another publication, Cabrera said he was embarrassed by his behaviour and said, "I made serious mistakes."

"I refused to listen to anyone and did what I wanted, how I wanted and when I wanted," Cabrera said.

"That was wrong. I ask Micaela for forgiveness. I ask Celia 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'm going to work as hard as I can to clean up my image. I want to recover the stature I had as an athlete.” – Angel Cabrera.

"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."

Another publication said Cabrera was undergoing treatment for alcohol addiction, including taking daily medication that causes sickness if he drinks.

The 54-year-old played a tournament in Rosario, Argentina, last week and tied for 10th.

Augusta National did not immediately respond to a request for comment on whether he would be invited to the Masters, where champions have a lifetime exemption.

The publication obtained a letter from the tour notifying Cabrera that his suspension was lifted effective Monday and that "failure to comply with the terms of your release from prison or any additional information regarding your legal situation in Argentina may result in the immediate reinstatement of your suspension."

Cabrera has seven wins on main tours around the world, his last one at the Greenbrier Classic in 2014. He is best known for holding off Tiger Woods and Jim Furyk to win at Oakmont for his first major, and for his shot out of the trees on the 18th hole that led to a play-off win at the Masters over Kenny Perry and Chad Campbell.

In the interview, Cabrera added that being on the golf course again "felt like a rebirth" and that his hope is to return to the Masters.

"I've made serious mistakes, but I've also paid my debts," he said.

"I'm going to work as hard as I can to clean up my image. I want to recover the stature I had as an athlete.

"Golf is everything to me. It's my life. I have to continue."