MADRID // Five-times major winner Seve Ballesteros confirmed today that tests carried out over the last few days have revealed he has a brain tumour. The 51-year-old Spaniard was taken to Madrid's La Paz hospital last Sunday after suffering dizziness and a brief loss of consciousness. "After being able to notify my three children personally and their mother I can inform you of my illness," Ballesteros said in a statement.
"After exhaustive checks at the hospital they have detected a brain tumour." Ballesteros will undergo a biopsy tomorrow after which doctors will decide how to proceed. It is unknown whether the tumour is benign or malignant. "Throughout my career I have been one of the best at overcoming obstacles on a golf course. Now I want to be the best, taking on the toughest match of my life," he added. "I have always felt solidarity with those facing illnesses, many who were much older than me.
"I want to recall their bravery, belief, calmness, confidence and great mental strength we need to confront these situations however difficult they may be. "I want to thank from the very bottom of my heart all those people interested in my state of health with many different types of support." The two-time US Masters champion Jose Maria Olazabal visited his friend and compatriot Ballesteros in hospital, and afterwards spoke to reporters.
"Aside from the logical concern, Seve was very well. We had a long chat," he said. "I wish him a quick recovery." Another Spanish golfer Miguel Angel Jimenez, who like Olazabal had been competing at the Madrid Masters, told reporters: "Seve, we love you. Everyone hopes you recover as soon as possible and we look forward to seeing you again soon." Ballesteros, one of the most popular players of all-time, won 87 titles during his career, including the Open in 1979, 1984 and 1988 and the US Masters in 1980 and 1983.
He also played an inspirational role in the Ryder Cup, winning 20 points from 37 matches, as well as captaining Europe to victory at the Spanish course of Valderrama in 1997. *Reuters
