Legend Ballesteros dies

Former world number one Severiano Ballesteros has died, aged 54, after losing his battle with cancer.

The golfing legend, who won five Majors in an illustrious career, died at his home in northern Spain, and a statement has appeared on his official website confirming the sad news.

“Today, at 2.10am Spanish time, Seve Ballesteros passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at his home in Pedrena.

“The Ballesteros family is very grateful for all the support and gestures of love that have been received since Seve was diagnosed with a brain tumour on 5th October 2008 at Madrid Hospital La Paz.

“At this time the family asks for respect and privacy at such a painful time.”

Ballesteros was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2008, after collapsing at Madrid airport. He underwent four operations to remove the tumour and also endured a bout of chemotherapy.

A true icon of the game, Ballesteros won 87 titles in one of the most glorious careers of all time, with fans all over the world marvelling at his flamboyance and shot-making genius.

He won three Open Championships in 1979, 1984 and 1988 and also became the first European to win the US Masters in 1980, before claiming another Green Jacket three years later.

Ballesteros, known throughout the golfing world as Seve, was also a Ryder Cup hero as a player and then as a captain, when he led the European team to victory at Valderrama in 1997.

Before last year’s showpiece at Celtic Manor in South Wales, he spoke on the phone to Colin Montgomerie’s team before they took to the course against the Americans. His inspirational words helped the home team to win the match 14.5 to 13.5.