Javier Ballesteros will attempt to follow in the footsteps of his famous father when he joins the professional ranks after leaving university.
Ballesteros, whose Dad Seve passed away earlier this year, announced his intention to relinquish his amateur status on completion of his Law degree at the George Washington University, in America.
The 21 year old from Santander, who played in the Wednesday Pro-Am at the Castelló Masters, is a member of the Spanish National Team.
He said: “As soon as I finish my studies, I would like to turn pro and give it a shot. I have received an invitation to play the Mallorca Open next May, and I will play it for sure (as an amateur).
“When I finish studying, I will train a lot more. Now, I cannot train a lot – I hit around 200 balls every day, but I only play once a week. Playing is when you really learn.
“Angel Matallana (at Golf Santander) is helping me to change my swing. My coach has always been my Dad, but obviously that’s not possible anymore.”
World Number One Luke Donald, who played alongside Ballesteros Jnr during the Pro-Am at the recent Bankia Madrid Masters, praised the young Spaniard’s game.
He said: “I was very impressed with Javier, he is so like his late father. I guess the genes have been passed down.”
